On Monday, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani traveled to Baghdad for a two-day visit to discuss the formation of the upcoming Iraqi government.

During a meeting with the leaders of the Shi’a Coordination Framework – including Nouri al-Maliki, head of the State of Law Coalition – the officials discussed the political landscape in Iraq and initiatives to establish a new federal government.

“In this regard, there was a strong emphasis on forming a government that addresses current challenges and meets the expectations and needs of all Iraqi communities,” the Kurdistan Region Presidency said in a readout.

“Both sides highlighted the significance of cooperation among political factions and the necessity of uniting efforts to address the country’s challenges, particularly those concerning Erbil and Baghdad, in accordance with the constitution. They also underscored the importance of upholding peace, stability, and sovereignty in Iraq.”

During the meetings, President Nechirvan Barzani reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to supporting the political process in Iraq and pledged to offer all necessary assistance to ensure the successful formation of the new federal government.

In response, the leaders of the Coordination Framework expressed their satisfaction with the visit and commended President Nechirvan Barzani’s stance and policies, recognizing his efforts to address challenges and the importance of collaborative efforts.

Read More: Kurdish Leaders Welcome Iraqi Prime Minister-Designate in Erbil

During his visit, President Nechirvan Barzani met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani, in which they discussed forthcoming steps necessary to form a new federal government.

President Nechirvan Barzani commended al-Sudani’s contributions and highlighted the importance of building on the agreements reached between Erbil and Baghdad to address the issues.

He also met with Iraqi Prime Minister-Designate Ali al-Zaidi afterwards. During the meeting, President Nechirvan Barzani congratulated al-Zaidi on his designation as prime minister and offered his best wishes for success. He also conveyed the willingness and support of the Kurdistan Region for the effective formation of the new cabinet and the success of his administration.

Last Saturday, Iraqi Prime Minister-Designate al-Zaidi visited Kurdish leaders in the Kurdistan Region, and held a meeting with President Nechirvan Barzani that focused on the formation of the upcoming Iraqi government.

On April 27, the Coordination Framework nominated the relatively unknown Iraqi businessman al-Zaidi to be Iraq’s next prime minister. Al-Zaidi has 30 days to form the government and he has to secure a vote of confidence from the majority of the Iraqi parliament.

So far, he has managed to get endorsement from the Kurdish leadership, Iran, and the United States.

“We wish him success as he works ​to form a new Government free from terrorism ​that could deliver a brighter future for Iraq,” U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social on April 30.