Today marked the opening of the highly anticipated Meri Forum in Erbil, bringing together hundreds of academics, government officials, party leaders, researchers, and journalists. This annual event, organized by the Middle East Research Institute (Meri), serves as a platform for in-depth discussions on pressing issues in Kurdistan and Iraq, given the ongoing regional dynamics.

The forum commenced its proceedings at 9:30 AM with an inaugural address by Dr. Delavar Aladdin, President of the Middle East Research Institute, who set the tone for the two-day event.

The first day of the Meri Forum features seven panel discussions, hosting key figures from both Kurdistan and Iraq, as well as foreign diplomats. The initial session focuses on the needs, aspirations, and perspectives of the residents of Mosul, with prominent attendees including Mosul Governor Najm al-Jubouri, local officials, and religious leaders. Their discussions revolve around addressing regional challenges.

The Meri Forum is scheduled to run for two days, concluding on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at 6:30 PM.

The central aim of this gathering, as articulated in the institute's official statement, is to foster a constructive environment for dialogue, reconciliation, and the exchange of ideas among policymakers, decision-makers, and academics.

The main themes of the Meri Forum 2023 include "Iraq for All, Iraq and Its Neighbors, Iraq and Kurdistan in Regional and Global Equations, International Cooperation to Build the State of Iraq, and Relations between Erbil and Baghdad and Resolving Outstanding Issues between the two sides."

In addition to the Meri Forum, the Middle East Research Institute regularly provides valuable scientific and academic research on critical and sensitive issues concerning Iraq and Kurdistan. The institute seeks to consolidate divergent perspectives within an academic framework through closed-door meetings involving officials, journalists, and researchers.

The Meri Forum 2023 promises to be a vital platform for dialogue and understanding amid the complex geopolitical landscape of the region. With participants from various sectors and backgrounds, the event holds the potential to contribute to the resolution of regional challenges and promote cooperation among stakeholders.