ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Saturday reiterated that Erbil will continue to defend the region’s financial entitlements in talks with the Federal Government of Iraq.

The premier’s statement came during a meeting with the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) High-Level Committee on Baghdad Relations, during which they discussed the latest developments in talks with the federal government, according to a government statement.

“The Prime Minister recognised the Committee and its representatives’ tireless efforts in negotiating with the Federal Government for a fair deal that guarantees and protects the Kurdistan Region’s constitutional rights and financial entitlements,” read the KRG statement.

“Barzani stressed the government will continue to defend the Kurdistan Region’s financial entitlements, which are enshrined in the Iraqi constitution.”

The statement also noted the KRG is “yet to receive its share of the federal budget” for May, June, July, and October, “which continues to weaken political stability and unity in the country.” It also highlighted positive progress in negotiations between Erbil and Baghdad has led to “a mutual understanding on the draft 2021 budget bill.”

Talks will continue “between the two governments is ongoing as we attempt to reach a fair and lasting agreement on outstanding issues,” the statement concluded.