Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani called for stronger cooperation between Erbil and Iraq as it moves toward forming a new federal government.
Barzani said the Kurdistan Region stands ready to work with Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi under the Iraqi constitution. He also stressed the importance of resolving disputes through constitutional mechanisms.
The remarks came during a graduation ceremony for 359 second lieutenants at the Second Military College in Zakho.
The Kurdistan-Baghdad relations 2026 discussion focused heavily on security coordination and political cooperation. Barzani said the Kurdistan Region remains committed to protecting Kurdish constitutional rights while supporting development across Iraq.
He emphasized that cooperation between Baghdad and Erbil benefits the entire country. “The strength of Baghdad means the strength of the Kurdistan Region,” Barzani said. He added that a strong Region also strengthens Baghdad.
Barzani also discussed military coordination between the Iraqi army and the Peshmerga forces. He described the Peshmerga as part of Iraq’s wider defense structure rather than a separate force.
Additionally, he noted that the Second Military College operates under the Iraqi Ministry of Defense. He said the Peshmerga protect Iraq and play an important role in national security.
The Kurdistan-Baghdad relations 2026 agenda also included counterterrorism cooperation. Barzani pointed to the role of Kurdish forces during the war against ISIS. He said the Peshmerga helped liberate Iraqi territory and confront extremist groups.
Furthermore, Barzani warned about rising tensions across the Middle East. He said regional instability affects all parties in the area.
He also reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s support for peaceful solutions. According to Barzani, Iraq and the Region should avoid involvement in wider regional conflicts.
The Kurdistan-Baghdad relations 2026 debate continues as Iraq prepares for a political transition and ongoing security challenges. Kurdish leaders and federal officials now face growing pressure to strengthen cooperation and maintain stability across the country.
