The Co-Leaders of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, Bafel Talabani and Lahur Talabany, received on Tuesday the United States Ambassador to Iraq, Matthew Tueller and the United States Consul General to Erbil, Rob Waller, in Slemani.

The meeting shed light on the latest developments and changes in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. 

“We discussed the political, security and economic developments, particularly the danger of ISIS's remnants on the security of the region, the early elections of the Iraqi House of Representatives, the strategic discussions between the United States and Iraq, and the approval of the Iraqi Federal budget.” PUK Co-Leader Lahur Talabany wrote on his Facebook account.

PUK Co-Leaders then relayed the proposals and decisions of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan regarding the issues at hand and discussed the approval of the Iraqi budget law and Kurdistan Regions share of the Federal budget. They emphasized that the budget should be used to improve the economy and improve the livelihoods of Kurdistan Region’s citizens. They described this step as an important beginning for building trust between the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. 

“We reaffirmed the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan’s desire to hold early parliamentary elections on time and for it to be a fair election under the supervision of international observers, and away from interference that would express the will of any party. We consider this step as an important political, security, and economic factor for social stability.” Bafel Talabani asserted.

Furthermore, the Co-Leaders called for greater coordination between the Peshmerga forces and the Iraqi Security forces, along with the Coalition Forces, to confront the remnants of terrorism and to bring more peace to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. 

Regarding the internal situation in the Kurdistan Region, they reaffirmed the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan’s desire and efforts for unity with all Kurdish parties. “We consider this an important point for further development of the Kurdistan Region in all aspects.” Lahur Talabany said.

They emphasized on Patriotic Union Kurdistan’s efforts regarding the implementation of all points of the agreement with the Kurdistan Democratic Party on participation and ruling of the government, which will further stabilize the region, provide a decent life to citizens, and serve the people of Kurdistan.

Edited by: PUKNOW