Nechirvan Barzani: Radical solutions to conflicts with Baghdad are expected after the formation of a government

Prime Minister of Iraqi Kurdistan, Nechirvan Barzani has said that: “the negotiations of the formation of a new Iraqi government will begin after the ratification of the results.”

He added: “the Iraqi people deserve a better life, and this depends on political stability. But that will not be achieved without addressing the problems, including the conflicts within the region.”

Speaking about his latest visit to Baghdad, he said, “Our meeting with [Iraqi Prime Minister Haider] Al-Abadi in Baghdad was good, but radical solutions to the conflict between Erbil and Baghdad are expected after the formation of the next government.”

Read: Iraqi court jails French and German citizens for life

He highlighted: “relationships with Baghdad and the countries of the region have been restored, and we have no restrictions on anyone in Baghdad. We seek no terms, but rather call for a wise application of the constitution to achieve stability.”

The relationship between the federal government and the northern region has witnessed an unprecedented tension, following the last referendum in September.

As a result, Baghdad imposed sanctions on the region, including the prohibition of international flights to and from the area. However, it has lifted the ban after about six months.

Baghdad has also established control over the disputed areas between the two sides, namely Kirkuk, which was held by the regional forces, the Peshmerga, for years.

However, the crisis abated several months ago, and officials of the two governments held talks about the outstanding issues between them, as well as meetings about the formation of the new government.