Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq (cabinet.gov.krd) - Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani yesterday received the United States Deputy Secretary of State, Mr. Tony Blinken, and his accompanying delegation.

In the meeting, also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani, the US delegation congratulated Peshmerga forces for their significant achievement in liberating the town of Sinjar, praising the high level of cooperation with coalition forces.

Following the delegation’s visit to one of many camps of internally displaced persons, IDPs, Mr. Blinken said the Kurdistan Regional Government, KRG, has accommodated refugees and IDPs in the best possible way despite the burdens of severe financial constraints and the intense conflict with the Islamic State terrorist organization, ISIS. He noted that they will work to encourage the international community to improve humanitarian assistance.

Prime Minister Barzani thanked the United States for its efforts and support that helped change the military balance of power in favor of the Peshmerga and coalition forces. He conveyed the appreciation of the people of the Kurdistan Region, the KRG, and the Peshmerga forces for US military and humanitarian support since the emergence of the ISIS threat.

Prime Minister Barzani expressed his hope that the United State will assist the Kurdistan Region in reconstructing Sinjar and other liberated areas.

Regarding the Region’s economic situation, Prime Minister Barzani mentioned that the KRG has prepared a plan of reform. The delegation offered the United States’ readiness to assist the Kurdistan Region with professional consultancy.

KRG-US relations, Erbil-Baghdad relations, and the general situation of the Region were also discussed.