Sulaimani Forum 2025: President Barzani calls for peace talks, article 140 action

Shafaq News/ On Wednesday, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani urged Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to activate Article 140 of the Constitution concerning the status of disputed territories between Erbil and Baghdad, while praising the premier's role in establishing Halabja as a province.

Relations With Iraq

Speaking at the ninth Sulaimani Forum, Barzani reiterated the Kurdistan Region's commitment to the Iraqi Constitution as the framework for managing ties with Baghdad. He underscored federalism, pluralism, and partnership as the core constitutional principles that safeguard the rights of all Iraqi communities without discrimination.

"Recent months have witnessed significant progress in resolving outstanding issues between Erbil and Baghdad, thanks to the commendable efforts of Prime Minister al-Sudani," Barzani said. "His vision of fostering common ground and minimizing disputes is the right path forward. I particularly stress the need for swift implementation of the Property Restitution Law and activation of the committee for Article 140."

He emphasized the Kurdistan Region's intent to continue constructive dialogue with the federal government to reach lasting solutions that serve the interests of all Iraqi communities and uphold constitutional rights.

Kurdistan as a Stabilizing Force

Barzani underscored the Kurdistan Region’s continued role as a stabilizing actor in Iraq and the wider region. He reaffirmed Erbil’s commitment to fostering peaceful relations with neighboring countries and the international community, grounded in mutual respect and shared interests.

"We believe firmly in the integration of Kurdistan, Iraq, and the wider region for the sake of lasting peace and sustainable development," he said. "Dialogue and diplomacy can unlock vast opportunities for all the peoples of this region."

He noted that Kurdistan’s stability contributes significantly to Iraq’s overall progress and warned against ignoring Kurdish rights.

"The past century has proven that the denial of Kurdish rights leads only to war, instability, and suffering," Barzani warned. "The Middle East cannot find peace while ignoring the identity and rights of millions of Kurds who live in their historical homeland."

Kurdish Cabinet Formation

Barzani also highlighted the importance of reactivating the Kurdistan Parliament amid the Region's current political and economic challenges. He called on the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), and other electoral winners to expedite the formation of a new cabinet capable of meeting public expectations and responding effectively to regional developments.

Turkiye Peace Talks

President Barzani reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region's support for the peace negotiations between Turkiye and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), describing them as a "historic opportunity" to secure lasting security and stability in the region.

"Peace is strength. The pursuit of peace reflects courage and conviction, not weakness," Barzani said. "Everyone wins with peace. Under its umbrella, countries prosper, and conflicts recede."

Syria and a Democratic Future

Turning to Syria, Barzani welcomed steps taken by Kurdish political groups to unify their demands within the broader peace process. He expressed hope that this alignment would lead to a democratic Syria that respects the rights of all ethnic and religious communities.

"The Syrian government must become a true representative of the country’s diversity, ensuring equal participation and rights for all," he added.

Shared Crisis

"The world faces shared threats—from climate change, food insecurity, and forced migration to terrorism," Barzani confirmed. "These challenges are already evident in Iraq, where water shortages have displaced thousands."

He stressed the need for global cooperation to address such crises, urging the international community to shoulder its collective responsibilities.

Call for Peaceful Coexistence

Barzani concluded his address with a strong appeal for inclusive peace and coexistence across the Middle East, urging all regional actors to abandon past hostilities and work collaboratively toward a brighter future.

"The time has come for genuine reconciliation… Let us extend hands of friendship, embrace coexistence and mutual respect, and build a future where this region becomes a hub of civilization and global relevance."

He stressed that the current conditions in countries where Kurds and other communities coexist offer a timely opportunity to resolve conflicts through dialogue and within national frameworks. "Such efforts will bring about lasting peace and security, enabling all to move forward without fear."

"The Kurds are an indigenous and significant people of this region," Barzani concluded. "Their role in advancing peace will enhance the region's strength, allowing all nations to benefit from greater stability and prosperity."