ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq – Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani met with Mohammed al-Halbousi, leader of Iraq’s Sunni Taqadum Party, in Erbil on Thursday to discuss strengthening relations and overcoming challenges, months after the two leaders met in Baghdad. 

Halbousi, a former Iraqi parliamentary speaker, arrived in Erbil on Thursday alongside a high-level delegation from his party to meet senior Kurdish leaders, including Prime Minister Barzani and President Masoud Barzani. 

“Both sides stressed the importance of developing relations, cooperation, and coordination between Iraq's political forces and parties to address the various challenges, obstacles, and difficulties facing the country,” the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) said in a statement. 

Barzani and Halbousi also voiced support for the federal government of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi “in protecting the constitutional rights of all components and serving all Iraqi citizens in a fair and non-discriminatory manner,” according to the KRG statement. 

During a visit to Baghdad in late May, Prime Minister Barzani met with Halbousi to discuss resolving outstanding issues between Erbil and Baghdad. The visit was Barzani’s first official trip to Baghdad since the formation of the new Iraqi cabinet. 

Speaking to reporters following their meeting, Barzani reaffirmed support for the federal government under Zaidi. Halbousi echoed his remarks, saying he was “honored” to visit the Kurdistan Region. 

"Our discussions involved stressing the need for cooperation and coordination between political forces to preserve our nation's interests," Halbousi said.