KRG Prime Minister Barzani Meets US National Security Advisor, Discusses Bilateral Relations and Regional Challenges
Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani engaged in discussions with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in Washington, addressing a range of topics concerning US-KRG relations and regional stability. The meeting, part of Prime Minister Barzani's official visit to the United States, emphasized the enduring partnership between Kurdistan and the United States, reaffirming US support for the constitutional rights and economic viability of the Kurdistan Region as outlined in Iraq's constitution.
Sullivan expressed appreciation for the longstanding alliance between the two entities and affirmed US commitment to assisting in the resolution of ongoing challenges faced by the Kurdistan Region. These challenges notably include recent attacks by Iran-aligned armed groups and ongoing budget negotiations between the KRG and the Iraqi government.
During the meeting, both leaders underscored the importance of fostering stability and economic progress across Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Sullivan reiterated US support for the KRG and the Iraqi government as they strive to establish a durable revenue- and budget-sharing arrangement that respects the constitutional structure of the Kurdistan Region and safeguards the rights of Kurdish communities.
Prime Minister Barzani conveyed gratitude for US support and emphasized the necessity of upholding the constitutional framework of the Kurdistan Region while protecting the rights of its citizens. His visit follows a recent ruling by Iraq's Federal Supreme Court, mandating the transfer of all KRG revenues to the federal government and the nationalization of civil servants' salaries in the Region.
Earlier in the week, Prime Minister Barzani met with United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken to discuss similar topics, further solidifying the partnership between the US and the Kurdistan Region. Blinken reaffirmed US commitment to a resilient KRG and underscored the significance of the bilateral cooperation in Iraq's broader stability.
The meeting between Barzani and Sullivan occurred against the backdrop of heightened tensions in the region, particularly following Iran's ballistic missile attack on Erbil last month. Sullivan condemned the attack during their discussions.
Prime Minister Barzani's visit to the United States underscores the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation between the Kurdistan Region and its international allies, particularly in navigating regional challenges and advancing mutual interests.
