Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani held a meeting today with the head and members of the Finance Committee of the Iraqi Federal Parliament to discuss financial rights and unresolved issues between the Kurdistan Region and the federal government.

Prime Minister Barzani welcomed the parliamentary delegation, highlighting the importance of the visit. He expressed hope that it would clarify key financial issues and lead to the resolution of ongoing disputes. The Prime Minister reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region's commitment to fulfilling its constitutional obligations while safeguarding its rights, stressing the need for all provisions of the Iraqi constitution to be implemented as a complete package.

Barzani emphasized that goodwill, mutual respect, and adherence to the federal system, along with recognition of the Kurdistan Region's constitutional status, are essential for resolving outstanding problems. "We seek to establish the best relations with the federal government, and joint cooperation is essential to serve the citizens," Barzani stated.

He also underscored that the region’s salaries and financial entitlements should not be used as a political tool, calling for fair treatment of the Kurdistan Region, similar to other areas in Iraq. He insisted that the KRG must receive its full financial rights without obstruction, including the ability to hire new employees in accordance with the Federal Budget Law.

In a significant point of discussion, Barzani highlighted the financial losses caused by the halt in Kurdistan's oil exports, which have exceeded $19 billion for both the region and the federal budget. He called for the swift resumption of oil exports and urged the federal government to enact a law governing oil and gas.

Atwan Al-Atwani, head of the Finance Committee, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the delegation for the KRG’s warm reception and collaborative efforts. He affirmed that their visit aimed to address financial issues seriously and thoroughly. Al-Atwani announced that the Finance Committee would continue its meetings with KRG officials over the next two days in Erbil to work towards resolving the outstanding disputes.