PM Barzani Chairs Cabinet Meeting on Kurdistan Budget Bill
“The Prime Minister, joined by Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani, reviewed the estimated expenditures and revenues from relevant ministries and headed a discussion on the current financial situation in the Kurdistan Region and ongoing preparations for the tabling of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s 2021 budget bill,” the readout of the meeting said.
“The budget bill will take into account the realities of the current state of affairs in the region and will be based on transparent data, oil and non-oil revenues, anticipated deficits, and net expenditures, aimed at strengthening the public finances of the Kurdistan Region,” it added.
Relevant officials also briefed the meeting on the latest developments regarding the 2021 federal budget bill, which is scheduled for a vote next week by the Iraqi Council of Representatives.
On the issue, PM Barzani emphasized that the KRG remains committed to finding a peaceful and sustainable solution to the disputes with the federal government, reaffirming that Erbil’s rights, including its financial entitlements, should be secured in a future deal.
The Prime Minister expressed hope that the Iraqi parties would welcome and support a call from Federal Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi to take immediate measures toward a political resolution between the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Federal Government of Iraq.
Earlier this week, Kadhimi called for a “national dialogue” to address differences with Erbil and overcome other issues challenging Iraq now.
