President Nechirvan Barzani received on Wednesday in Erbil the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, Mr. Joey Hood and his accompanying delegation.

The meeting focused on a wide range of topics including the latest political developments in Iraq, the bilateral relations of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region with the United States, Erbil-Baghdad relations and the ongoing efforts to resolve the pending disputes. The threats posed by ISIS, the status of the Shingal district and the economic situation in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region were also highlighted.

Both sides agreed on the importance of overcoming the obstacles to the political process in Iraq and breaking the current impasse, reiterating the need to form a government which addresses the grievances and demands of all communities in the country. The significance of tolerance and unity among all parties across Kurdistan was affirmed.

Mr. Hood thanked President Nechirvan Barzani for supporting the mutual relations and cooperation between the two sides, and highlighted their strong bonds of friendship and partnership, and reaffirmed the US support to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

The meeting, attended by a number of diplomats and officials from the US Consulate General in Erbil, also focused on the issues of freedom of expression, human rights and the rule of law, developments in Ukraine, Afghanistan and the wider region.

The President also wished Mr. Hood success in his upcoming diplomatic mission as he assumes a new position.