Qubad Talabani: Efforts Continue to Form Unified KRG Cabinet Despite Differences

Kurdistan 05:09 PM - 2025-05-06

Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of Kurdistan Region.

Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, addressed the delay in forming the new cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government, stating that positive understandings are in place to reach a final agreement.

Speaking at a press conference following his attendance at the Middle East Tourism Exhibition in Erbil, Deputy PM clarified that the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) have yet to finalise an agreement on cabinet formation, and reports circulating about post allocations are inaccurate.

On public sector salaries, he noted that the KRG is "awaiting approval from the federal Ministry of Finance for disbursement."

Commenting on recent Dukan talks between the PUK and KDP, he described them as productive: "There was a one-on-one meeting between Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and PUK President Bafel Talabani, alongside discussions between party delegations. This helped rebuild trust and created a more constructive environment to form a government that can better serve the public."

Qubad Talabani acknowledged that "it is natural for the PUK and KDP to differ, given our distinct political approaches, but unity is essential on key national issues in the interest of the Kurdistan Region."

Addressing the cabinet delay, he stressed that the main reason lies in "the shared desire to establish a government that reflects citizens’ expectations. Talks have centred on creating a shared vision for governance, rather than on dividing positions."

He added that while reaching consensus was challenging, the two sides have now agreed on a governance framework. "The next phase of negotiations will focus on how to implement the cabinet formation."

Regarding Syria, Qubad Talabani confirmed that the Kurdish issue was raised with the French Foreign Minister, "highlighting the need for international support for all communities in Syria." He emphasised that "France remains attentive to both the Syrian and Kurdish matters."

The third edition of the Middle East Tourism Exhibition launched today at the Erbil International Fairgrounds, featuring 150 tourism companies and participants from 15 Arab and international countries. The event will continue for three days.



PUKMEDIA