The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan has endorsed Nouri al-Maliki’s nomination for Prime Minister, while a high-level PUK delegation conducts crucial talks in Baghdad. The meetings focus on accelerating government formation, resolving Kurdistan Region-federal disputes, and building consensus amid regional instability stemming from Syrian developments.
PUK President Endorses al-Maliki Nomination
Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), welcomed the Coordination Framework’s decision to nominate Nouri al-Maliki, leader of the Rule of Law Coalition, as Iraq’s next Prime Minister. In his statement, President Bafel expressed optimism that the nomination would expedite constitutional procedures for forming the new government. He emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation among political parties to preserve stability and establish a strong, service-oriented government that addresses citizens’ aspirations and reflects Iraq’s current realities.
High-Level PUK Delegation Arrives in Baghdad
At a critical political juncture marked by government formation deadlock, a senior PUK delegation arrived in Baghdad on Saturday, 24 January 2026, for intensive political consultations. The delegation, led by Qubad Talabani and including Darbaz Kosrat Rasul, Dr. Yousif Goran, and Khalid Shwani, held meetings with Iraq’s most prominent political leaders.
The visit underscores the PUK’s commitment to maintaining a strong Kurdish presence in Iraqi decision-making processes, particularly amid rapidly evolving regional developments in Syria that threaten to destabilize the country.
Key Meetings and Discussions
The delegation met with Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani, Ammar al-Hakim, Nouri al-Maliki, Hadi al-Amiri, Qais al-Khazali, and Mohammed al-Halbousi, among other influential figures.
Discussions centered on accelerating government formation through broad political consensus among all Iraqi communities. The PUK representatives stressed that the next government must be strong, efficient, and service-oriented, committed to implementing the constitution while enhancing political stability, security, and public services.
Priority: Resolving Kurdistan Region-Baghdad Disputes
Throughout the meetings, Qubad Talabani consistently emphasized that resolving outstanding issues between the Kurdistan Region and Baghdad must be the incoming government’s foremost priority. He particularly highlighted disputes related to the federal budget and public sector salaries, describing these as constitutional rights that should not be subject to political manipulation.
The PUK delegation received agreement from multiple Iraqi leaders on the importance of addressing these matters in accordance with constitutional principles.
Regional Context Adds Urgency
The delegation’s visit occurs against a backdrop of significant regional developments, particularly in Syria. The PUK stressed the urgent need to unify Iraq’s national discourse and strengthen coordination among political forces to safeguard the country’s security and prevent regional crises from spilling across borders.
Building Consensus for Inclusive Government
In meetings with al-Hakim, al-Amiri, and al-Halbousi, both sides agreed on the necessity of forming a government based on the consent of all Iraqi communities, capable of serving all citizens equally. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to constitutional obligations and genuine partnership between Baghdad and Erbil based on Iraq’s supreme national interests.
The PUK’s intensive diplomatic engagement demonstrates its belief that the current stage requires active, responsible political presence in Baghdad to resolve disputes, reinforce stability, and advance economic development and public services for all Iraqis.
