The Iraqi Economic Council held a significant meeting in Erbil on Friday, chaired by Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, with a follow-up session planned for Saturday alongside Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani.

These high-level discussions are expected to address long-standing financial disagreements between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the federal government in Baghdad, with both sides aiming to find lasting solutions.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Barzani chaired a meeting of the KRG Council of Ministers in preparation for the Federal Ministerial Economic Council's visit to Erbil. The session focused on unresolved issues between the KRG and Baghdad, with ministers emphasizing the importance of cooperation in resolving financial matters.

In a statement, the KRG Council of Ministers expressed optimism about the forthcoming talks, highlighting the meeting as a key opportunity for direct dialogue. "The Council of Ministers warmly welcomes the holding of this meeting in Erbil and views it as an important opportunity to address serious unresolved issues between the KRG and the Iraqi government in all sectors," the statement read.

The KRG has tasked the Secretary of the Council of Ministers, alongside key officials, with coordinating efforts with the KRG's representation in Baghdad and the Federal Economic Council’s Secretariat. The KRG underscored the need for solutions that respect the constitutional powers of both governments while enhancing cooperation to improve livelihoods across Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region.

These meetings are seen as pivotal in advancing economic collaboration and resolving financial disputes that have strained relations between Erbil and Baghdad, with the hope of fostering a more cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship.