ERBIL — In a “lengthy” meeting with a top Turkish diplomatic delegation, Masrour Barzani, who is nominated to serve as the next prime minister of Kurdistan Region, said Erbil will continue the strong partnership with Ankara.

Barzani, who currently serves as the chancellor of Kurdistan Region Security Council, received Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Monday in Erbil.

“In their meeting, both discussed at length the regional developments and mechanisms to increase bilateral trade. Chancellor Barzani welcomed the improved relations with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region,” according to a readout issued by the KRSC.

“They underscored mutual interest in stability in Iraq and the border regions.”

Barzani and Cavusoglu also touched upon the latest developments in neighboring Syria. The top Kurdish security chief expressed concern about the future of Kurds in Syria, urging Turkey “to help advance peace for all of the Syrian peoples”.

Concerning Iraq, the senior officials agreed that Islamic State (IS) remains a threat to the entire region despite final victory over the terrorist group on the ground. Turkish support to Iraq, in particular to the areas affected by the anti-IS campaigns, was also on the agenda.

“Chancellor Barzani and Minister Cavusoglu agreed to have regular consultations on these important issues and other bilateral challenges,” the readout concluded.

Bas News