President Bafel: Kurdish Unity Essential as PUK Prepares New Political Programme

PUK President’s media office

PUK President Bafel Jalal Talabani.

The annual commemoration of the founding of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) was held in Sulaymaniyah on Monday in the presence of PUK President Bafel Jalal Talabani, bringing together senior political leaders, diplomats, officials and guests from across the region.

Addressing attendees, President Bafel reflected on the PUK’s history, describing it as a source of pride and sacrifice that has played a defining role in the Kurdish national movement. He praised party members and supporters for their commitment throughout the organisation’s history and stressed that the party’s legacy must serve as a foundation for building a stronger future.

“The PUK has a glorious history, but we aspire to a better future,” President Bafel said, emphasising the party’s ambition to strengthen its role both within the Kurdistan Region and internationally.

President Bafel highlighted what he described as growing confidence in the PUK among regional and international actors, including the United States, European countries, China, Russia, Iran and Arab states, saying that the party has become an influential political force capable of contributing to the resolution of regional challenges.

He announced that he intends to release a detailed statement in the coming days outlining the PUK’s programme for the next four years, as well as its vision for the formation of the next cabinet.

A significant portion of the speech focused on political stability and dialogue. President Bafel said the PUK had played a role in reducing tensions in Baghdad and strengthening stability in Sulaymaniyah through its cooperation with the New Generation Movement. However, he stressed that further efforts are needed to achieve broader political understanding among Kurdish parties.

He called for the creation of a united Kurdish front, arguing that closer coordination among political forces across Kurdistan would strengthen Kurdish influence and help advance shared national objectives.

Referring to the Kurdish population worldwide, President Bafel said greater unity among Kurds would increase their ability to shape regional and international discussions concerning Kurdish rights and aspirations.

President Bafel revealed that the PUK is preparing to sign a strategic agreement with the New Generation Movement, describing the step as part of a broader effort to bring about meaningful political and economic change for citizens in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

Expressing confidence about the future, President Bafel said progress would continue through cooperation and dialogue, adding that efforts to form the next government remain ongoing. He reiterated the PUK’s position regarding government participation, stating that the party seeks representation based on electoral results and political balance.

Concluding his remarks, President Bafel expressed optimism about the future of Kurdistan and called for unity, cooperation and continued efforts to improve the lives of citizens across the region.


PUKMEDIA