Salahadin, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, (Krp.org)- President Masoud Barzani received a number of chiefs of missions, consul generals and other diplomats from around the world who are based in Erbil. President Barzani began the annual meeting by warmly welcoming the attendees. He then spoke of the current war against the terrorists of the Islamic State, the relations between the Kurdistan Region and Baghdad and the internal issues in the Kurdistan Region.

President Barzani shed light on the current military situation against the terrorists of the Islamic State whom he described as "an advanced version of al-Qaeda" adding that while al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups in Iraq were religious fundamentalists, the terrorists of the Islamic State have combined their religious and nationalistic extremism. The President also spoke of the indiscriminate murders of the terrorists against civilians and military personnel alike and how that brutality poses a great danger to the Kurdistan Region.

The President also commented on the military successes against the terrorists in several operations in both Syria and Iraq, but stressed on the importance of liberating Musol and how the liberation of Musol will cause tremendous damage to the terrorists. However, he added that while the liberation of Mosul must be of utmost importance to Erbil, Baghdad as well as the allies, there ought to be plans for post liberation administration of the city.

President Barzani also commented to the esteemed diplomats on the relations between Erbil and Baghdad and how there are ongoing efforts to enhance those relations. He also spoke of the economic challenges facing both Baghdad and Erbil as both capitals are engaged in a costly war against the terrorists