Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq, (krg.org) – Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani received yesterday the Defense Minister of the Government of Iraq, Dr. Khaled al-Obeidi.  He was accompanied by a delegation included the Chief of Staff of the Iraqi Army, the US Chief Security Coordinator in Iraq, the Governor of Mosul, Iraqi and US military officials, and advisors. The Kurdistan Regional Government Minister of Peshmerga Affairs also attended the meeting.

The importance of continuous and consistent cooperation between Peshmerga and Iraqi Army forces was acknowledged. Iraq’s Defense Minister commended the effectiveness of Peshmerga forces in confronting threats to the country’s security, highlighting achievement in recovering Zumar and Rabia towns from ISIS terrorists.

The Defense Minister affirmed the Peshmerga forces as important and integral part of Iraq's defense system. He indicated he would spare no effort to resolve the Peshmarga related outstanding issue with Baghdad. He expressed his wishes that the much expected visit of Kurdistan Region's delegation to Baghdad could pave the way in solving all the outstanding issues between Erbil and Baghdad.

The Defense Minister noted that enhancing the Iraqi Army’s capabilities is needed now  as it goes on the offensive.

Other topics discussed included the overall security situation, recent military developments, importance of tribal forces involvement in confronting terrorists, and the establishment of youth national force units from various parts of the country. To successfully confront terrorism, creating regional units from regional local tribes deemed necessary in this phase of the fight against terror, than can positively change the military equation on the ground.

The international community’s response in supporting national and regional efforts to confront, stop, and roll back ISIS terrorists was acknowledged, lauded, and discussed.  The effectiveness of airstrikes by the US and other coalition partners was highlighted as critically important to helping halt terrorist advances in many areas.

Prime Minster Barzani lauded the participation of Arab countries in the international coalition and acknowledged their participation as crucial. While considering coalition forces airstrikes successful, the Prime Minister emphasized that they are alone not enough, and that the fight against terror needs a change in strategy. He stressed the need for the ground forces to be well armed and well equipped.

Regarding relations between the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Government of Iraq, Prime Minister Barzani expressed optimism about the future. He emphasized the KRG’s positive interest and disposition in settling all outstanding issues between Erbil and Baghdad through respectful dialog and negotiation.