Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani meets with Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in Erbil to discuss Baghdad–Kurdistan relations and unresolved issues. (Photo: Office of the Prime Minister)
Greeted by KRG PM
Iraqi prime minister visits Erbil for talks on ‘outstanding disputes’
ERBIL — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani arrived in Erbil on Saturday for high-level talks with Kurdistan Region officials, focusing on unresolved issues and efforts to improve ties between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government.
Al-Sudani was received at Erbil International Airport by Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, according to a statement from the Iraqi Prime Minister’s Media Office.
KRG spokesperson Peshawa Hawramani told 964media the talks would center on long-standing disputes between the two governments.
“The talks will focus on the relationship and outstanding disputes between Erbil and Baghdad,” he said. “Some of those issues have seen progress toward solutions, but others still require more dialogue.”
A key issue expected to be addressed is the resumption of Kurdish oil exports through the Iraq–Turkey pipeline, halted since March 2023 following an international arbitration ruling.
Although a February amendment to Iraq’s federal budget law allocated $16 per barrel for production and transportation costs, disagreements remain over payment guarantees, debt settlements, and the role of international oil companies.
The KRG is seeking assurances on outstanding payments and contractual terms, while Baghdad emphasizes adherence to federal oversight and legal frameworks. The deadlock has resulted in significant revenue losses and continues to strain relations between the two governments.
