PM Sudani, Qubad Talabani discuss government formation

BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani met Monday with Kurdistan Region Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani to discuss political developments following the Nov. 11 parliamentary elections and the next steps in forming a new federal government.

In a statement, al-Sudani’s media office said the talks reviewed the political, economic and development situation across Iraq, with a focus on advancing ongoing projects and improving basic services. Both sides “emphasized the importance of expediting the requirements for forming the next government” and agreed on the need to build on “the achievements made by the current government,” the statement said.

The parliamentary election was held on Nov. 11, 2025, with more than 7,700 candidates competing for the 329 seats in the Council of Representatives. According to the final results published by the Independent High Electoral Commission, nationwide turnout reached 56.11%.

The coalition led by al-Sudani, known as the Reconstruction and Development Coalition, emerged as the largest bloc in the new parliament. However, no single list secured a majority, meaning government formation will require coalition building and negotiations among multiple forces.

Al-Sudani and Talabani “highlighted the importance of adhering to constitutional frameworks and legal processes in addressing national issues,” the statement said, framing the next stage as a test of institutional procedures and political compromise.

Talabani, a senior figure in the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, also met separately with State of Law Coalition leader Nouri al-Maliki. In that meeting, the sides discussed the three top federal posts, the presidency, premiership and speakership, and exchanged views on managing appointments “in line with constitutional procedures,” according to a State of Law statement.