Tensions between Baghdad and Erbil, the capital of Kurdistan Region, had been escalating due to political and legal disputes, notably the Federal Supreme Court’s February decision to nullify minority quotas. However, since the Court reversed its ruling in May, relations have remarkably improved, marking a new era of calm and cooperation.
This positive turn follows strained ties exacerbated by Kurdistan’s 2017 independence referendum.
Masoud Barzani, influential leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), is set to visit Baghdad—the first in six years—to engage in talks and negotiations aimed at resolving long standing issues.
According to Kurdish sources, Barzani is scheduled to arrive Wednesday for discussions aimed at finalizing solutions to ongoing disputes, including financial allocations, employee salaries, oil and gas legislation, electoral issues, and governance challenges in Kirkuk, where local elections have yet to form a government six months after voting.
Barzani’s agenda in Baghdad is expected to include discussions on Sinjar, recent Turkish military actions in Dohuk province and other Kurdish areas, and potential threats from armed groups targeting Erbil.
A Kurdistan Regional Government delegation arrived in Baghdad on Monday to prepare for Barzani’s visit and discussions. The delegation includes Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed, Finance and Economy Minister Awat Sheikh Janab, and the Director General of Customs and Border Crossings.
As Barzani prepares for his visit, Erbil is swiftly strengthening ties with Iraq’s judiciary, especially the Federal Supreme Court.
Relations had soured in recent years due to what the Kurdish region criticized as biased rulings.
Kurdistan Regional Government President Nechirvan Barzani’s support for Chief Justice Fayeq Zidan is a key development amidst reports of potential US sanctions linked to Iranian interests targeting Iraqi leaders, including Zidan.
