Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), held a series of critical meetings in Baghdad with Iraqi officials, political leaders, and the UN envoy. Discussions focused on resolving the salary crisis in the Kurdistan Region, promoting fair governance, and strengthening national unity. Talabani reiterated the PUK’s commitment to equitable service delivery, constitutional rights, and ensuring Iraq’s stability amidst regional tensions, urging for collaborative efforts to protect citizens’ welfare.
Strengthening National Unity: Talabani Meets PM Sudani
Bafel Jalal Talabani met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani in Baghdad to discuss pressing national issues and regional developments. The two leaders emphasized solving disputes and fostering national unity to shield Iraq and the Kurdistan Region from regional conflicts. Talabani stressed the necessity of equitable service delivery by the government, advocating for fair treatment of all citizens regardless of their backgrounds.
Addressing the Kurdistan Region’s salary crisis, Talabani reaffirmed the PUK’s support for Federal Court decisions aimed at securing employee wages. He urged Prime Minister Sudani to continue his collaborative approach in safeguarding the financial rights of Kurdistan’s people. “The livelihood of citizens must not be politicized,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of resolving this issue at its core.
Another focal point was the formation of a new government in the Kurdistan Region. Talabani advocated for a service-oriented and inclusive administration based on true partnership. “We envision a government rooted in equality and justice, working for everyone while prioritizing the resolution of citizens’ issues,” he remarked.
Partnership with Taqaddum Party Leader Al-Halbousi
In another key meeting, Talabani met with Mohammed Al-Halbousi, leader of the Taqaddum Party. Nizar Amidi, a senior PUK official, also attended the discussion, which revolved around unifying efforts to address the longstanding disputes between Erbil and Baghdad. Both sides reiterated their commitment to the constitution as the cornerstone for resolving issues, particularly regarding the financial entitlements of the Kurdistan Region.
The leaders also evaluated the broader Middle Eastern situation, including Syria’s ongoing crises. They stressed the need for a unified national strategy to ensure Iraq’s security and stability while shielding its citizens from regional upheavals. Talabani called for proactive measures to prevent Iraq from becoming a battleground for external conflicts.
Dialogue with Babylon Movement’s Rayan Al-Kildani
At a meeting with Rayan Al-Kildani, Secretary-General of the Babylon Movement, Talabani explored solutions to the financial and political challenges facing Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Discussions included the impact of delayed salaries on citizens’ livelihoods and the PUK’s efforts to address this pressing issue.
Talabani highlighted the PUK’s consistent focus on protecting citizens’ rights and welfare. “We have tirelessly worked to safeguard the lives of citizens and their financial rights. Political disputes should never affect people’s livelihoods,” he asserted. He urged all parties to fulfill their obligations and collaborate on a long-term resolution to the salary crisis.
The meeting also touched on the situation in Syria, with both leaders advocating for protecting the rights of all communities within a stable and just framework. Talabani emphasized the need for a unified stance to confront potential threats, ensuring Iraq’s stability and avoiding regional spillovers.
Collaboration with UN Representative Mohammed Al-Hassan
Bafel Jalal Talabani met Mohammed Al-Hassan, the UN Secretary-General’s representative in Iraq, at the late Mam Jalal’s residence in Baghdad. Accompanied by Nizar Amidi, Talabani praised the UN’s role in promoting stability and mediating between conflicting parties. “The PUK values your efforts and remains committed to collaborating for the greater national interest,” Talabani said.
Discussions included the formation of a new government in the Kurdistan Region, with Talabani underscoring the PUK’s vision for a just and service-oriented administration. He called for cooperation between political forces and the international community to expedite the process, ensuring equitable governance.
Addressing the salary crisis, Talabani urged the UN to engage in finding a permanent solution to protect the financial rights of Kurdistan’s citizens. “We must work together to prevent financial entitlements from being exploited in political disputes,” he emphasized. Both sides agreed on the need for a peaceful resolution to regional tensions and a collective responsibility to maintain Iraq’s stability.
A Broader Vision for Regional Stability
Throughout his meetings, Talabani consistently addressed regional challenges, including the Syrian crisis, urging collaborative efforts to maintain Iraq’s security. He called for a unified national strategy to shield Iraq from the repercussions of neighboring conflicts. “Our land should not become a battleground for settling regional disputes,” he warned, emphasizing the importance of a stable and secure Iraq for all its citizens.
Talabani’s dialogues in Baghdad underscored the need for inclusive governance, fair distribution of resources, and proactive measures to address citizens’ grievances. By engaging with political leaders and international representatives, he reaffirmed the PUK’s commitment to upholding constitutional rights and fostering a more stable and prosperous future for Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
