Erbil, Kurdistan - Iraq (KRG.org) – Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Michael Mullen met with Kurdistan Region President Masoud Barzani, Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani, and other senior officials on Saturday.


» Admiral Mullen arrives to meet Interior Minister Sinjari, Chief of Staff of the Presidency Dr. Hussein, Head of the Department of Foreign Relations Minister Bakir, and KRG Representative to the US Mr. Talabani (right to left)

Among the principle topics discussed included the relationship between the Kurdistan Region and the United States; outstanding issues between the KRG and the Federal Government of Iraq such as the status of the disputed territories, the implementation of Article 140, a national hydrocarbons law, the security situation in the Region and throughout Iraq; and the improved relations between the KRG and neighbouring Turkey.

In his meeting with Admiral Mullen, President Barzani said, “We are grateful for the role of the United States in improving our situation since 1991 and the sacrifices made to secure our liberation in 2003.” He explained that the Kurdistan Region will remain committed to the Constitution and will address outstanding issues through political dialogue, welcoming the contribution of the US in this regard.

The President continued, “From the beginning, we have been a part of the solution. This is a critical time for Iraq, and we will do our utmost to pursue a policy of peaceful coexistence and federal democracy in Iraq.”

On his first visit to the Kurdistan Region in Iraq, Admiral Mullen expressed his pleasure to be in the Region, noting the progress that has been achieved and the challenges that remain. He also explained that he was well aware of Kurdistan’s difficult history. Admiral Mullen explained that the US military would not forget that the Kurds had sacrificed a great deal, and he reaffirmed that the US will see the process through. He also reinforced the US commitment to its relationship with Iraq, the Kurdistan Region, and its people, and underscored the intention of the US to remain diplomatically and politically engaged.


» Admiral Mullen with Prime Minister Barzani and officials

Prime Minister Barzani, who met with Admiral Mullen separately, remarked, “We believe this visit to be a welcome sign from the US. The KRG understands that the policy of the new US administration regarding the responsible withdrawal of US forces signifies assistance to Iraq in tackling outstanding issues.” He added, “Now is the time for the people of Iraq to actively participate in addressing unsolved problems, and the KRG will continue its role in stressing genuine dialogue and constructive discussion to promote political stability and lasting security.”

Admiral Mullen was joined by Major General Campbell, Head of Operations at the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and other officials. Also present in the meetings were KRG Deputy Prime Minister Imad Ahmad and other ministers and officials.