President Nechirvan Barzani received Mr. Mohammad Kazem Al Sadegh, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Iraq, and his accompanying delegation.

During their meeting, discussions were held on the development of Iranian relations with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, the security agreement between Iraq and Iran, as well as Erbil-Baghdad relations and efforts to resolve their differences.

In his speech, the President noted the significance of maintaining good relations with Iran, an important neighbor of the Kurdistan Region. Furthermore, the President assured that they will not allow any security threat from the Kurdistan Region to the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Ambassador Al Sadegh highlighted the importance of Iranian relations with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region and thanked the President of the Kurdistan Region for his assistance in providing transportation for Iranian pilgrims during Ashura and Arba’in commemoration.

President Nechirvan Barzani and Prime Minister of Iraq, Mr. Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, discussed the latest developments in the security situation in Kirkuk.

Both sides stressed the need to take immediate measures to maintain peace and stability in Kirkuk and prevent any attempt to disrupt the coexistence and security of the city and the safety of its citizens.

The two leaders emphasized that the security forces in the city must maintain peace and stability in Kirkuk, and ensure the safety of all communities in the city. They also stressed that the security forces must prevent further chaos and tensions in the city, and find and prosecute the shooters who killed and injured protesters.

The blockade of the Erbil-Kirkuk highway in the past six days was illegal. Unfortunately, this illegal act has not been addressed by the Kirkuk administration yet. Kirkuk needs the implementation of the law and the constitution, and does not need more illegal activities.

As the city administration did not address the roadblock, which has affected the lives of the residents of the city, Kurdish citizens in Kirkuk today protested against the blockade, but unfortunately they were responded with violence, as a result of which a young man lost his life and several others were injured.

While we look at the security tensions with great concern, and closely monitor the situation, we strongly condemn the shooting and the use of live ammunition against civilian demonstrators. Inciting chaos in Kirkuk poses a serious threat to coexistence, security and stability.

The relevant parties of the Federal Iraqi Government must take the necessary measures immediately as it is the duty of the security forces to protect the safety of all communities in Kirkuk without any discrimination, and bring the perpetrators to justice.

It is the responsibility of all parties to maintain peace and security, and not allow the security situation in Kirkuk and the province to deteriorate under any pretext. We call on everyone to exert maximum restraint; the roads should be opened and peace and normal life must be restored for all the citizens of Kirkuk.

Nechirvan Barzani
The President of the Kurdistan Region

September 2, 2023