In a resounding call for fairness, Kurdistan Region's Minister of Finance and Economy, Awat Janab Noori, has emphasized the urgent need for equitable treatment of civil servants as negotiations over salaries with the Iraqi federal government intensify.

Minister Noori's remarks come amidst a backdrop of historical disparities and ongoing discussions regarding the salaries of Kurdish security forces. Addressing the issue head-on, he highlighted concerns regarding past misconceptions surrounding civil servants' remunerations, attributing them to misinterpretations fueled by political agendas.

Speaking to the pressing political climate facing the Kurdistan Region since 2012, Minister Noori underscored the imperative for parity in salary structures, echoing widespread calls for fairness and equality across Iraq. He pointed out the challenges posed by Iraq's revised expenditure approach, which has hindered progress for the Kurdistan Region compared to other Iraqi provinces, presenting a notable obstacle in budget negotiations.

Minister Noori shed light on recent talks between Kurdish officials and counterparts in Baghdad, revealing the struggles faced by the federal government in meeting the Kurdistan Region's allocated share due to financial constraints.

A critical issue highlighted by Minister Noori is the stark disparity within Kurdish society and civil service, with over 350,000 individuals yet to receive their rightful salary disbursements. Drawing attention to the significant contrast in employment rates between Kurdistan and Iraq as a whole, he stressed the need for rectifying these discrepancies to ensure fair treatment of all civil servants.

Furthermore, Minister Noori expressed concern over the lack of transparency regarding the financial arrangements of pro-Iran Hashd al-Shaabi militiamen, calling for clarity and accountability in budget allocations.

Amidst these challenges, Minister Noori highlighted the potential for progress through initiatives such as the MyAccount system, lauding its efficiency and cost-effectiveness compared to the traditional Iraqi banking system.

The resounding message from Minister Awat Janab Noori underscores a pivotal moment in the negotiations, as the Kurdistan Region pushes for fair treatment and parity in salary structures for its civil servants. While obstacles remain, his call for equitable treatment resonates as a crucial step towards addressing longstanding grievances and fostering inclusivity within the region.