Erbil, Kurdistan Region - In its regular weekly meeting held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, the Council of Ministers of the Kurdistan Region, under the leadership of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani, tackled crucial topics on the agenda.

Negotiating Delegation's Visit to Baghdad

The meeting commenced with a review of the outcomes of the recent visit by the Kurdistan Region's negotiating delegation to Baghdad. Led by Minister of Finance and Economy Awat Sheikh Janab and Secretary of the Council of Ministers Amanj Rahim, discussions focused on the rights of salary recipients in the region, amendments to the federal budget law, the resumption of oil exports from the Kurdistan Region, and associated production and transportation costs. The Council commended the delegation's efforts to secure the region's rights and facilitate the joint audit process with the Financial Control Bureau.

Commendation for Recent Federal Government Understandings

The Council expressed appreciation for recent understandings with the federal government, acknowledging progress towards amending the federal budget law. The removal of restrictions preventing the disbursement of the Kurdistan Region's budget and salaries, particularly the financial dues of salary recipients, was highlighted. It emphasized the importance of not conflating this issue with other matters.

Salary Dues and Federal Responsibilities

Addressing the delayed salary dues, the Council stressed the need for the federal government to fulfill its responsibilities promptly. Anticipating the financial entitlements for salary recipients to be disbursed this month, the Council welcomed joint efforts between the regional and federal governments to reach a comprehensive agreement. It emphasized the importance of incorporating this agreement into the amendment of the federal budget law.

Protecting Public Roads and Properties

In the second part of the meeting, the Council discussed measures taken by relevant ministries to implement a law determining prohibited activities on public roads. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani directed ministries responsible for protecting public roads, considering them public properties, to address any encroachments harming public interests. The Council urged relevant institutions to safeguard public properties and roads from encroachments within the framework of the law.

The Kurdistan Region reaffirmed its commitment to cooperation and coordination with the federal government to address these critical issues, ensuring the rights and entitlements of the region are safeguarded.