Kurdistan: the Glorious Past and the Exciting Future

[Anthea]

President Nechirvan Barzani Stresses

Strengthening Peaceful Coexistence

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani reaffirms his commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and interfaith harmony among all communities in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region

On Monday, the Kurdistan Region Presidency released a statement detailing Barzani’s meeting with a delegation from the Iraqi diaspora in the United States, led by Martin Manna, the President of the Chaldean-American Chamber of Commerce.

According to the statement, President Barzani praised the role of the Iraqi diaspora in strengthening Iraq and the Kurdistan Region’s international relations, particularly in fostering economic development and global engagement.

President Barzani underscored the importance of preserving Iraq’s national identity, along with its cultural and religious diversity, while promoting peaceful coexistence among all ethnic and religious groups.

Emphasizing Mutual Understanding and Economic Cooperation

The visiting delegation highlighted the significance of tolerance, reconciliation, and inter-communal unity in the Kurdistan Region. They also expressed a strong interest in expanding economic cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, particularly in the fields of investment and development, to create new opportunities for enhanced collaboration between Iraq’s diaspora and Kurdistan.

Both sides discussed various investment initiatives and projects in the Nineveh Plains and the Kurdistan Region, emphasizing the need for long-term partnerships to stimulate economic growth and rebuild war-affected areas.

President Barzani reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s dedication to fostering peaceful coexistence, social harmony, and religious tolerance, stressing that the Kurdistan Region remains a model for diversity and inclusion in the Middle East.

He further emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between Iraq’s internal and external communities, as well as fostering international partnerships for a more prosperous and stable future for all Iraqis.

A Regional Hub for Coexistence and Investment

The Kurdistan Region has long been recognized as a safe haven for diverse ethnic and religious communities, especially following years of conflict in Iraq. The region has actively pursued policies that protect minority rights, promote interfaith dialogue, and encourage economic partnerships with both regional and international stakeholders.

While Iraq has faced sectarian tensions and political instability, the Kurdistan Region continues to position itself as a hub for peaceful coexistence and sustainable investment opportunities. With the backing of its diaspora and global partners, the Kurdistan Region aims to create an inclusive economic landscape that benefits all communities while reinforcing Kurdistan’s role as a bridge between Iraq and the international business community.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/82 ... ommunities

[Anthea]

KDP, PUK Leaders in High-Level Talks

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) are set to hold a high-level meeting in Erbil, led by KDP Vice President Masrour Barzani and PUK President Bafel Talabani, a senior PUK official confirmed

According to a top PUK source, Talabani is scheduled to travel to Erbil for the meeting, which is expected to take place either late Saturday or early Sunday.

The source indicated that while several meetings have taken place between KDP and PUK delegations, some outstanding issues remain unresolved. “This high-level meeting is necessary to finalize agreements on pending matters,” the source said.

I have an issue: why has not the traitor Bafel Talabani been arrested?

The discussions will primarily focus on the formation of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) tenth cabinet, political coordination between KDP and PUK, as well as regional developments, including the political situation in Turkey following Abdullah Ocalan’s latest message regarding peace talks.

On February 22, KDP and PUK held a meeting in Sulaymaniyah following the drafting of a preliminary agreement between their technical delegations. Both sides issued a joint statement affirming their commitment to continued dialogue to achieve a mutually accepted roadmap for governance.

A follow-up meeting was held in Erbil on February 26, led by KDP’s Hoshyar Zebari and PUK’s Qubad Talabani. Despite ongoing talks, no final agreement has been reached on key political appointments, including the presidency of the Kurdistan Parliament and the leadership of the Kurdistan Region.

Nearly four months have passed since the Kurdistan parliamentary elections and over two months since the first session of the new parliament, yet Kurdish political parties have not reached a consensus on forming the next cabinet. The failure to appoint key leadership positions has further delayed the finalization of the new government.

With growing pressure to resolve the political impasse, the upcoming meeting between VP Barzani and President Talabani is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the next steps for governance in the Kurdistan Region.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/876715

[Anthea]

BCF Launches Special Project

to Aid Orphaned Children

The Kurdish Barzani Charity Foundation (BCF) has launched the Azizani Kurdistan project, a major humanitarian initiative aimed at supporting thousands of orphaned children in the Kurdistan Region

Announced on Tuesday during the holy month of Ramadan, the campaign seeks to provide financial assistance and essential aid to vulnerable children. In its first phase, BCF has distributed over $1.36 million in direct financial aid to 3,562 orphaned children

BCF President Musa Ahmed said the second phase, set to be implemented before Eid al-Fitr, will provide more than $4 million in aid to over 11,000 orphaned children across the Kurdistan Region. The initiative is being supported in part by the UAE Red Crescent.

The foundation also plans to launch another major relief effort next week, distributing food packages to more than 15,000 families across cities and towns in the Kurdistan Region to help struggling households during Ramadan

Founded in 2005, BCF has played a central role in humanitarian efforts across Kurdistan, Iraq, and beyond, providing food, healthcare, education, and housing to displaced persons, refugees, and underprivileged families.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/877017

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PM Barzani Reaffirms Kurdish

Claim over Disputed Areas

Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani reaffirmed Kurdish claims over disputed territories in a visit to Peshmerga forces and Kurdish farmers in Kirkuk on Monday, calling the areas "occupied" rather than disputed

PM Barzani met with Peshmerga commanders and local farmers, joining them for Iftar. He expressed solidarity with the Kurdish community and reiterated that the Kurdistan Region will continue efforts to ensure the return of these areas under Kurdish administration.

“These places were wrongly called ‘disputed areas.’ They are not disputed; they are occupied. They are isolated. They are part of Kurdistan and were forcibly taken from our people,” the Kurdish prime minister stated. “Our people should return to their areas one day, but with pride. We want all of them to be peaceful.”

PM Barzani criticized the failure to fully implement Article 140 of the Iraqi Constitution, which was intended to resolve the status of Kirkuk and other contested regions after the 2005 constitution was adopted. “A big mistake was made when these areas were not returned to Kurdistan,” he said, adding that Erbil remains in talks with Baghdad and international allies on the issue.

The Prime Minister also condemned attacks against Kurdish farmers in the region, calling them "ugly scenes" and emphasizing that Kurdish leadership had swiftly responded to protect their rights. “We are ready to defend the legitimate rights of the Kurdish people in any way, especially the rights of farmers,” he said.

During his speech, the Kurdish leader called for Kurdish unity, urging political parties to set aside differences for the sake of the region’s stability. “The unity of the people of Kurdistan is important. If we all sacrifice for Kurdistan, no force will be able to stand against us,” he said

PM Barzani also praised the Peshmerga for their continued efforts to defend the region, acknowledging the sacrifices of fallen fighters. “We owe a debt of gratitude to the families of the martyrs,” he said.

His visit comes amid ongoing tensions between the KRG and the federal government in Baghdad over security and administrative control in Kirkuk, a resource-rich province historically claimed by both sides. Despite past agreements, Kurdish leaders argue that the region remains under non-Kurdish control and have pushed for its return to Kurdish administration.

Prime Minister Barzani concluded his speech by extending Ramadan greetings to the gathered forces and farmers, reaffirming the KRG’s commitment to supporting the people of the region

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/877594

[Anthea]

PM Barzani, Bafel Talabani to Meet

Over Cabinet Formation

Kurdistan Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) President Bafel Talabani are set to meet in Erbil on Sunday to discuss the formation of the new cabinet and broader political developments in the Region

According to KRG spokesperson Peshawa Hawramani, the meeting will address key political challenges and focus on finalizing a power-sharing agreement, marking a significant step toward resolving the long-standing political deadlock. The discussions follow weeks of negotiations between the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the PUK, which have sought to overcome differences on governance structures, ministerial allocations, and the region’s administrative framework.

Sources close to the negotiations suggest that if the meeting results in a breakthrough, the long-delayed formation of the new KRG cabinet could be finalized before Ramadan Eid, which is two weeks away. Political analysts consider this a crucial juncture, as prolonged delays have hindered government functionality and decision-making at a critical time for Kurdistan's economy and governance.

The Kurdistan Region has faced months of political uncertainty since the last regional elections, with tensions between the KDP and PUK delaying the formation of a new government. Power-sharing disagreements, particularly regarding key ministries and security-related positions, have been central to the impasse.

Historically, the KDP and PUK have shared governance in the Kurdistan Region under a coalition agreement, but recent disputes have strained their partnership. The delay in forming the new government has not only impacted policymaking but also raised concerns among international partners and investors about the Region’s stability.

In recent weeks, both parties have engaged in intensified negotiations, aiming to restore trust and finalize a framework that ensures a balanced government. The upcoming meeting in Erbil between PM Barzani and Talabani is widely viewed as a pivotal moment in these efforts.

Beyond the domestic political landscape, the Kurdistan Region faces pressing economic and security challenges, including ongoing disputes with the federal government in Baghdad over budget allocations and oil revenues. A functional and unified government is seen as essential for effectively navigating these challenges and ensuring the region’s stability and economic growth.

The outcome of the meeting will be closely watched, as its success could pave the way for a long-overdue resolution to the political stalemate and set the stage for a more cohesive governance structure in the Kurdistan Region.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/878102

We all know that Bafel Talabani is a TRAITOR, he committed TREASON by giving parts of Kurdistan to Iraq and in so doing cost the lives of many

Bafel Talabani belongs in PRISON

If Bafel Talabani gains any more power in Kurdistan he will completely DESTROY all the achievements Kurdistan has made in recent years

[Anthea]

PM Barzani and the TRAITOR Talabani
Discuss Formation of Kurdistan’s Tenth Cabinet

Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani met with the TRAITOR Bafel Talabani, the president of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), on Sunday to discuss the formation of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) tenth cabinet

According to a statement from the prime minister’s office, both leaders assessed their discussions positively and emphasized the importance of establishing a strong, unified, and service-oriented government as soon as possible.

Following the meeting, Talabani described the talks as constructive, stating, “Our meeting was very good. We agreed on several strategic matters that will benefit our nation. Our meetings will continue, and our shared goal is to form a government as soon as possible to serve our people.”

Remember the traitor Bafel Talabani committed TREASON against Kurdistan and it's people

Prime Minister Barzani echoed these sentiments, noting that this was their second productive meeting on the issue.

“We have made significant progress and reached a strong understanding on key issues. I hope that our teams will soon finalize a full agreement on government formation with the same positive spirit so that the people of Kurdistan can be pleased with the progress of our talks,” he said.

The discussions come amid ongoing efforts to form a new cabinet following the Kurdistan Region’s parliamentary elections, with political parties negotiating power-sharing arrangements and ministerial appointments.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/878185

Keep Your Friends Close and Enemies Closer

Are you looking for a way to warn someone to pay attention to the people around them? If so, you could use the proverbial saying, “keep your friends close but your enemies closer.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.

Meaning

The expression “keep your friends close and your enemies closer” means that you need to keep an eye on your enemies

[Anthea]

Diplomats from 51 Countries Visit
Mullah Mustafa Barzani’s Tomb

Erbil (Kurdistan24) — Representatives from 51 Arab, Asian, American, and European countries visited the tomb of the late Kurdish leader Mullah Mustafa Barzani in the Barzan region of Kurdistan Region on Friday, paying tribute to his legacy and the Kurdish struggle for freedom

During their visit, the diplomatic delegations were briefed on significant aspects of Barzani's life and the history of the Kurdish people's resilience.

The visitors were welcomed by Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, the Head of the Kurdistan Region’s Department of Foreign Relations, Safeen Dizayee, and the representative of President Masoud Barzani, Khalat Barzani.

Romanian Ambassador to Iraq, Radu Octavian Dobre, told Kurdistan24 that the visit to Amedi and Barzan was "a remarkable moment and a clear indication of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s and the federal government’s commitment to strengthening international relations."

Similarly, Abdelkarim Ben Slam, the head of Morocco's diplomatic mission in Iraq, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to visit the historic site for the second time. "Yesterday, we celebrated Newroz in Amedi alongside the Kurdish people. It was a wonderful occasion to share in their cultural heritage," he said.

He extended his warmest congratulations to the Kurdish people on the occasion of Newroz and the Kurdish New Year, wishing them continued progress and prosperity.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/83 ... -kurdistan

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KDP, PUK Begin Cabinet

Role Talks After Eid

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) are expected to begin negotiations on cabinet role distribution early next month, following the Eid al-Fitr holiday

PUK leadership member Luqman Wardi stated on Saturday that the talks will focus on the allocation of ministerial and senior positions in the new Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) cabinet. Wardi said both parties have already agreed on a shared governance framework, referred to as a “common vision project,” which has been submitted to party leaders for review.

“After Eid, when the committee reconvenes and discusses the distribution of positions, this project will be signed to become the foundation for governance in the Kurdistan Region over the next four years,” he noted.

Wardi added that regional shifts were carefully considered throughout the months-long dialogue between the KDP and PUK. “Changes in the political map of the region require us to organize our ranks and try to face future challenges with a unified political discourse,” he said.

The Kurdistan Region is currently navigating regional complexities, including its involvement in peace initiatives between the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and Turkey, as well as Kurdish unity talks in Syria related to engagement with the new administration in Damascus.

At the federal level, relations between Erbil and Baghdad are also shifting, with the central government exerting greater influence over Kurdish oil exports and budget disbursements.

Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, who also serves as KDP Vice President, met with the TRAITOR Bafel Talabani in Erbil last Sunday. Both leaders described the meeting as “very good” and expressed optimism about the progress of government formation.

Parliamentary elections in the Kurdistan Region were held in October after repeated delays. The KDP emerged as the largest party, securing 39 of the 100 seats, followed by the PUK with 23 seats. As no party holds a majority, coalition-building remains essential to form the next government.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/878758

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KRG, World Bank Discuss Reforms

Kurdistan PM Masrour Barzani and the World Bank’s Regional Director for the Middle East, Jean-Christophe Carret, reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation between Erbil, Baghdad, and the World Bank

Their discussions focused on advancing economic reforms, institutional modernization, and improving public services in the Kurdistan Prime Minister Barzani’s office said in a statement.

The collaboration aligns with the KRG’s broader efforts to modernize its economy and governance structures. In partnership with the World Bank, the KRG has adopted a roadmap for structural reform, prioritizing key areas such as:

• Institutional Modernization – Enhancing the Ministry of Economy and Finance’s capacity to lead fiscal policymaking and reform.

• Biometric Registration – Implementing biometric systems for government employees and beneficiaries to eliminate inefficiencies and ensure accurate benefit disbursement.

• Electricity Sector Reform – Improving service quality and financial sustainability in the power sector.

• Transparency Measures – Strengthening government transparency and public engagement to build trust in KRG programs.

• Social Protection Strategy – Promoting shared prosperity and reducing economic vulnerabilities over time.

The World Bank has been a key partner in these initiatives, including launching a social protection program in 2015 to support equity and economic resilience, as well as signing technical assistance agreements in 2014 to drive socio-economic development.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/878830

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Kurdistan’s Future Cabinet
May Exclude Opposition Parties

With the end of Ramadan approaching, negotiations between the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) have entered a critical phase as both parties work to finalize the formation of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) tenth cabinet

According to a senior source familiar with the talks, most contentious issues between the two ruling parties have been resolved, and attention is now shifting toward the distribution of government positions. “The discussions have progressed to an advanced stage, and the two parties have resolved most of their differences. The next phase will focus on the distribution of government positions,” the source told Kurdistan 24.

The KDP and PUK are reportedly determined to accelerate the formation of the new government and resume parliamentary activity without further delays. However, it remains unclear whether any ministers from the outgoing ninth cabinet will retain their posts.

A central goal of the KDP in these negotiations is the establishment of a unified political structure—one government, one parliament, and one Peshmerga command. The PUK has reportedly agreed in principle, signaling a shift from its past dual-track approach, which often saw factions acting independently from Sulaimani and Baghdad

The move toward unified governance is aimed at enhancing political stability and effective decision-making within the Kurdistan Region. Both parties agree that a cohesive strategy is needed to meet future challenges amid rapidly changing regional dynamics.

Western and regional diplomatic missions have repeatedly urged the KDP and PUK to speed up cabinet formation since the October 2024 parliamentary elections. Prolonged delays, diplomats warn, could impact governance, development, and Kurdistan’s international partnerships.

Notably absent from the current government formation process are opposition and Islamic parties. Once included in power-sharing arrangements, these groups have seen their influence wane due to electoral setbacks and internal divisions, leaving them sidelined from current negotiations.

In contrast to previous coalition governments that included multiple parties and often faced prolonged gridlock, the upcoming cabinet is expected to be more streamlined, with the KDP and PUK as the sole decision-makers. This two-party arrangement could enhance governance efficiency and provide a clearer voice in dealings with Baghdad and international actors.

Parliamentary paralysis remains another challenge. Lawand Jalal, a parliamentary advisor, confirmed that the legislature will not reconvene until a government deal is reached between the KDP and PUK. The presidency board remains unselected since the first session held on December 2, 2025.

In the October 2024 elections, the KDP secured 39 seats while the PUK won 23. Other parties such as the New Generation Movement (NGM), Kurdistan Islamic Union (KIU), and independent candidates won smaller shares but have not been involved in cabinet talks.

As the two dominant parties move closer to an agreement, the new cabinet is expected to reflect a more centralized governance model, aimed at reducing inefficiencies and strengthening internal and external coordination. While opposition parties will still participate in parliamentary debates, executive power is likely to remain concentrated between the KDP and PUK.

The coming weeks will determine how this unified governance model will function and whether it will lead to the stability and progress both parties promise. The political landscape of the Kurdistan Region appears to be shifting toward a streamlined structure prioritizing stability, unity, and strategic engagement.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/879252

I nominate the traitor Bafel Talabani for position of TOILET CLEANER