ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq - President Masoud Barzani on Thursday received Sunni strongman Mohammed al-Halbousi, discussing recent developments in the country as well as the relations between Erbil and Baghdad following the formation of the new Iraqi cabinet.

Halbousi, a former Iraqi parliamentary speaker and leader of the Taqadum Party, arrived in Erbil on Thursday alongside a high-level delegation from his party to meet senior Kurdish leaders.

The two leaders exchanged views on the relations between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the Iraqi federal government, and “emphasized the coordination and cooperation between the Iraqi political parties to overcome obstacles and resolve issues,” according to a statement from Barzani Headquarters.

The statement from Halbousi’s office also mentioned that Barzani and Halbousi emphasized the need to boost cooperation among the political forces “to support the federal government in implementing its program.”

In mid-May, Ali al-Zaidi secured the parliament’s confidence vote on his cabinet and was officially elected as Iraq’s new prime minister. Combating corruption and monopolizing weapons under state control have emerged as the central objectives of the Zaidi cabinet.

“The meeting also addressed regional and international developments and the challenges facing the region, as well as stressing the importance of unifying national positions to serve Iraq's interests,” read the statement from Halbousi’s office.

Halbousi met with Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani earlier, and the two held a presser following the meeting.

Speaking to reporters, the Kurdish premier reaffirmed support for the federal government under Zaidi. Halbousi said he was “honored” to visit the Kurdistan Region, and echoed Barzani’s support for Zaidi’s government.

In early June, Prime Minister Barzani said that Zaidi and Iraqi political forces want to “turn a new page” with Erbil, noting continued efforts to resolve outstanding disputes between the two governments.