During a meeting with France’s Ambassador to Iraq Patrick Durel on Tuesday, Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani underscored the necessity of ending the political deadlock and reconvening the Kurdistan Region Parliament.

The new KRG cabinet still has not been formed despite elections being held on October 20, 2024, in which the Kurdistan Democratic Party led with 39 seats, followed by the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan with 23, and the New Generation Movement with 15.

“The Prime Minister underscored the necessity of reactivating the [Kurdistan Region] Parliament, addressing issues in a responsible manner, and ending the current political deadlock in order to revitalize the democratic process in the Kurdistan Region,” the KRG readout reported.

Furthermore, both officials reviewed the latest developments in Iraq and the wider region, exchanging views on the importance of safeguarding security and stability in both the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

They highlighted the importance of supporting the federal government in confronting the country’s security, economic, and financial challenges.

Separately, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani also received Ambassador Durel on Tuesday. Their discussion focused on the relationship between France, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region, as well as the political landscape in Iraq, particularly the formation of the federal government. 

They emphasized the necessity of ongoing cooperation among political parties to ensure the country’s stability, peace, and sovereignty.

They also discussed the political situation in the Kurdistan Region and the initiatives aimed at addressing and resolving internal challenges. Both sides acknowledged that dialogue and mutual understanding between Erbil and Baghdad are essential for addressing outstanding issues.

The meeting also addressed the latest developments in the region. They agreed on the significance of peacefully resolving conflicts and preserving peace and stability.