Masoud Barzani, the President of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), held a significant meeting with Russian Ambassador to Iraq, Elbrus Kutrashev, at his Pirmam headquarters on Sunday, in a discussion centered on key regional issues.

The high-level talks, which were also attended by Russia’s Consul General in Erbil, Maxim Rubin, covered the political landscape of Iraq and the wider region, the critical oil export agreement between Erbil and Baghdad, and the upcoming Iraqi parliamentary elections.

According to an official statement from Barzani’s office, the discussions were "comprehensive," addressing recent developments, ongoing challenges, and the evolving relationship dynamics between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the federal government in Baghdad.

A primary focus was the recent agreement to resume oil exports from the Kurdistan Region through Iraq's federal pipeline system. Both parties emphasized the necessity of "maintaining and advancing the agreement," which is viewed as a vital component for economic cooperation and long-term stability in the region.

The upcoming elections for the Iraqi Council of Representatives also featured prominently. Barzani reaffirmed his support for conducting the elections in a "free and democratic environment." He stressed that the outcome must pave the way for a "strong federal government" that adheres to Iraq’s permanent constitution and is inclusive of all political components.

Ambassador Kutrashev conveyed Russia's "continued interest" in strengthening its relationship with both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. The meeting highlighted mutual efforts to deepen diplomatic and economic ties, with a particular focus on regional security concerns and the need for a coordinated approach to emerging threats.