Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani met United States Consul General Gwendolyn Green in Erbil on Monday. The meeting focused on the stalled KRG cabinet formation process. From the beginning, both sides stressed political consensus. Moreover, they highlighted cooperation among parties as essential.
According to the Kurdistan Region Presidency, the talks addressed the current political situation. In addition, the discussion covered steps needed to form the next Kurdistan Regional Government cabinet. Both officials emphasized mutual understanding. Therefore, they urged political forces to work together. As a result, they linked unity to long-term stability.
The KRG cabinet formation has remained delayed since regional elections in October 2024. However, political disagreements continue. In particular, tensions persist between the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan. These disputes center on power sharing and senior positions. Consequently, the process remains stalled.
Election results produced a divided parliament. The KDP secured thirty-nine seats. Meanwhile, the PUK won twenty-three seats. Since no party gained a majority, negotiations became unavoidable. Still, disagreements over governance mechanisms have slowed progress. Therefore, the KRG cabinet formation faces ongoing uncertainty.
The meeting also addressed relations between Erbil and Baghdad. Furthermore, both sides reviewed broader political developments. Discussions included the federal government formation process. They also examined the presidential election timeline. As such, both officials stressed political stability.
Recent parliamentary sessions completed several leadership selections. However, disputes over the presidency persist. Both Kurdish parties nominated separate candidates. As a result, talks reached a deadlock. This situation continues to delay the broader government process.
Under the constitution, strict timelines apply. The presidency election triggers the next steps. Therefore, delays create wider political pressure. Consequently, leaders view dialogue as urgent.
Overall, the meeting underscored continued US engagement. Moreover, it highlighted the importance of compromise. Above all, progress in the KRG cabinet formation remains vital for regional stability.