A comprehensive diplomatic effort to strengthen Erbil-Baghdad Relations
In a dynamic 48-hour visit to Baghdad, President Massoud Barzani of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) engaged in over 17 high-stakes meetings with key Iraqi politicians, foreign diplomats, and government officials. This diplomatic marathon aimed to repair strained relations between Erbil and Baghdad, with potential to reshape Iraq’s political landscape and foster regional cooperation.
Arrival and delegation
President Barzani arrived at Baghdad International Airport on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, accompanied by a high-level delegation from the Kurdistan Region. He was warmly greeted by Deputy Prime Ministers Mohammed Tamim and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, underscoring the visit’s significance.
The delegation included prominent figures such as Rebar Ahmad, Minister of Interior; Dr. Omid Sabah, Chief of Cabinet Office; Dr. Arafat Karam Stooni, Advisor to President Barzani; Azad Barwari and Hemn Hawrami, members of the KDP’s Political Bureau; and Khalida Khalil, spokeswoman for Barzani’s headquarters. Several other KRG officials rounded out the delegation, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the visit.
Meetings with
Iraqi leaders
The primary goal of Barzani’s visit was to address longstanding issues between Erbil and Baghdad, particularly disputes over oil revenues, budget allocations, and territorial conflicts. In a joint press conference with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Sudani, Barzani emphasized the need for continuous coordination, stating, “If there are good intentions, it will not be difficult to solve any problem.”
Prime Minister Sudani reciprocated, praising Barzani as “a patriotic leader who has played an influential role in the political process.” He noted significant progress in building trust between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). The visit also included critical meetings with leaders of the ruling coalition and the Supreme Judicial Council, aimed at fostering cooperation across various political factions.
Barzani met with Fayeq Zedan, head of the Supreme Judicial Council, to discuss the political situation in Iraq, inter-party relations, and regional developments. Zedan described the visit as “important and historic,” highlighting the legal and constitutional aspects of resolving disputes between Erbil and Baghdad.
Engagement with
foreign ambassadors
Barzani’s visit attracted international attention, with foreign diplomats expressing support for his efforts. U.S. Ambassador Alina Romanowski endorsed democratic processes in the Kurdistan Region, scheduled for November 20, underscoring the importance of stable governance in the region. Ambassadors from China, Russia, Britain, and France also met with Barzani, highlighting the global interest in Iraq’s stability and recognizing Barzani’s role as a key player.
The Chinese Ambassador expressed support for resolving problems between Erbil and Baghdad, while the Russian Ambassador emphasized Russia’s interest in Iraq’s stability. The British Ambassador to Iraq expressed his country’s support for improved Erbil-Baghdad relations and discussed economic issues, the ongoing threat of terrorism, and migration challenges. The Turkish ambassador to Iraq also emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving Iraq’s political problems, advocating for the inclusion of all communities in the process.
Barzani’s discussions with Mohammad Kazim Al Sadiq, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Iraq, and the Iranian Consul General in Erbil, Nasrullah Rashnoodi, focused on Iraq’s political situation and regional dynamics. The Iranian officials expressed hope that Barzani’s visit would strengthen unity among Iraqi parties and improve their relations, highlighting the regional implications of his diplomatic efforts.
Barzani also met with a joint delegation of ambassadors from eight Arab countries, including Kuwait, Qatar, Egypt, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. They discussed Iraq’s political situation and the objectives of Barzani’s visit, emphasizing the potential for positive outcomes in resolving issues and enhancing regional stability.
Engagement with
Iraqi Officials
A significant meeting occurred with leaders of the Coordination Framework, where agreements were reached to resolve outstanding issues between the two governments in accordance with Iraqi law and constitution. The parties also stressed the importance of a united national position on various issues, including the election of the Iraqi parliament speaker and efforts to assist relevant political forces in resolving their differences.
Barzani’s diplomatic efforts extended to Sunni leaders and parties, who described his visit as “historic and important.” They called on Barzani to help address the Sunni community’s demands and problems, including the issue of appointing the Iraqi parliament speaker. This outreach demonstrated Barzani’s commitment to inclusive politics and his recognition of the importance of addressing the concerns of all Iraqi communities.
The visit also included meetings with Nuri al-Maliki, leader of the State of Law Coalition, and Mohsen Mandelawi, Acting Speaker of the Iraqi Parliament. Both emphasized the importance of Barzani’s role in the Iraqi political process. Mandelawi appreciated Barzani’s historical role and position, hoping that his presence would help resolve Iraq’s problems.
Former Iraqi Prime Minister Ayad Allawi revealed that Barzani expressed satisfaction with the results of his meetings in Baghdad. Allawi noted, “President Barzani’s visit to Baghdad reflects his desire to find a solution, not to create problems.” He added that the visit had united the Iraqi position on Kurdish issues to a large extent, demonstrating Barzani’s effectiveness as a mediator and problem-solver.
Political analyst Abdul Razzaq Shammari highlighted Barzani’s crucial role in Iraqi politics, describing him as “the umbrella that brings together all political parties in Iraq.” Shammari noted Barzani’s ability to solve problems even within Sunni and Shiite communities, emphasizing his unique position as a unifying figure in Iraqi politics.
Broader implications
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein underscored the visit’s significance, stating it had “a positive impact on the internal situation in Iraq in general.” He emphasized Barzani’s influence on the Iraqi political process and noted that a high-level Iraqi military delegation would visit Washington to continue military talks between Iraq and the United States.
As Barzani’s diplomatic tour concluded, it left a trail of optimism and potential for improved relations between Erbil and Baghdad. The visit’s success in bringing together diverse political factions and international stakeholders suggests a possible turning point in Iraqi politics, with implications for regional stability and cooperation.
The sheer number and diversity of meetings held during this short visit underscore Barzani’s diplomatic prowess and his central role in Iraqi politics. From government officials to opposition leaders, from Sunni to Shia representatives, and from Western to Middle Eastern diplomats, Barzani’s ability to engage with all sides positions him as a key figure in shaping Iraq’s future.
As Iraq continues to navigate complex political, economic, and security challenges, the outcomes of Barzani’s visit may prove crucial in determining the country’s path forward. The emphasis on dialogue, constitutional solutions, and mutual understanding provides a framework for addressing long-standing issues between Erbil and Baghdad, as well as broader national concerns. As the Kurdistan Region prepares for its upcoming elections and Iraq grapples with ongoing challenges, the spirit of dialogue and cooperation fostered by Barzani’s visit may serve as a foundation for a more stable and prosperous future for all Iraqis.
The Kurdish Globe