Bassem Mohammed, Iraqi Deputy Oil Minister, disclosed that the imminent meeting aims to address key aspects of the oil export resumption. He emphasized the expectation of reaching a consensus during the discussions, leading to a formal agreement for the recommencement of oil exports. Additionally, Mohammed underscored the companies' expressed interest in maintaining their operations within the Kurdistan Region.
He articulated, "The contracts under consideration must align with the framework established in the agreements signed with the UAE Crescent Company during the fifth phase of licensing." This statement emphasizes the importance of consistency and adherence to established precedents in fostering successful collaboration between the involved parties.
The anticipated meeting signals a pivotal moment in the ongoing negotiations between the KRG and oil companies, marking a proactive step toward revitalizing oil export activities in the Kurdistan Region. As the discussions unfold, stakeholders remain optimistic about the potential for a mutually beneficial agreement that will not only resume oil exports but also pave the way for sustained collaboration in the region.
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Thirteen Peshmerga received immediate treatment and were discharged from hospital.
According to a statement by the Peshmerga Media and Awareness Cell, only six Peshmergas remain in hospital and are currently in good health and will be discharged as soon as possible.
At first, rumors circulated on social media that the number of the poisoned Peshmerga was 82, but the ministry denied it.
Bassem Mohammed, Iraqi Deputy Oil Minister, disclosed that the imminent meeting aims to address key aspects of the oil export resumption. He emphasized the expectation of reaching a consensus during the discussions, leading to a formal agreement for the recommencement of oil exports. Additionally, Mohammed underscored the companies' expressed interest in maintaining their operations within the Kurdistan Region.
He articulated, "The contracts under consideration must align with the framework established in the agreements signed with the UAE Crescent Company during the fifth phase of licensing." This statement emphasizes the importance of consistency and adherence to established precedents in fostering successful collaboration between the involved parties.
The anticipated meeting signals a pivotal moment in the ongoing negotiations between the KRG and oil companies, marking a proactive step toward revitalizing oil export activities in the Kurdistan Region. As the discussions unfold, stakeholders remain optimistic about the potential for a mutually beneficial agreement that will not only resume oil exports but also pave the way for sustained collaboration in the region.
Thirteen Peshmerga received immediate treatment and were discharged from hospital.
According to a statement by the Peshmerga Media and Awareness Cell, only six Peshmergas remain in hospital and are currently in good health and will be discharged as soon as possible.
At first, rumors circulated on social media that the number of the poisoned Peshmerga was 82, but the ministry denied it.
The French Defense Ministry said in a statement that a French soldier, Nicolas Latourt, was injured while on duty to train Iraqi security forces. He was taken to hospital in Erbil by helicopter and died.
The French Defense Ministry did not say where the incident occurred on Sunday.
The soldier, who belonged to the Sixth Battalion of Engineers, had participated in training with Iraqi security forces since May this year, on improvised explosive devices and defusing, the statement said.
On November 18, another French soldier was killed and another injured in a traffic accident in Erbil.
France is the second largest military partner with Iraq and has the largest number of troops in the international coalition against ISIS.
President Rashid emphasized the urgent need for consolidating values of brotherhood and humanity in the region. The Iraqi Presidency issued a statement, highlighting Rashid's stress on the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and collective action among people, recognizing the positive impact of the Holy See's messages in promoting understanding and calm.
President Rashid took the opportunity to showcase Iraq's strides in political and security stability, outlining the country's commitment to comprehensive development. Focus areas included improving citizens' living standards, repairing infrastructure, and driving economic development.
He reiterated Iraq's dedication to democracy, pluralism, and the protection of human rights. Addressing the relationship between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the federal government, President Rashid assured a commitment to resolving outstanding issues based on the Iraqi Constitution and the Law.
In a significant move, President Rashid affirmed the government's commitment to the vital role of Christian communities in Iraqi society. He pledged to facilitate the resettlement of Christians, Yezidis, and other indigenous communities in their homes, stating that the Presidency is open to addressing their demands, ensuring livelihoods, and preserving diversity. Furthermore, President Rashid condemned human rights violations in Palestine and the Gaza Strip, urging the international community to intensify efforts to prevent such violations, protect civilians, and facilitate humanitarian assistance.
Pope Francis, in turn, welcomed President Rashid, expressing the Holy See's support for Iraqi efforts in strengthening intercommunity relations and interfaith harmony. The Pope acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Christian community for a prosperous Iraq and underscored the importance of enhancing global peace opportunities.
In recent years, Iraq has stood out in the Middle East as a place where the Christian population has been growing, with the Kurdistan region earning a reputation as a welcoming and friendly place for Christians. The Kurdistan region, in particular, has been recognized as a Christian-friendly area, contributing to the increase in the number of Christians in Iraq. This trend is noteworthy in a region where such growth has been relatively uncommon.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani and US President Joe Biden are scheduled to meet on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York in September, the Iraqi newspaper Mada quoted a source close to Washington as saying.
The source added that the meeting will be held on the sidelines of the international meeting due to the complicated situation in Iraq and the Iranian issue.
However, the scheduled meeting between Biden and Sudan has not yet been determined.
A source close to the coordination said Sudani had rejected three invitations to visit Washington, because he was not sure of the US intentions, although he was interested in partnership and coordination with the US.
President Rashid emphasized the urgent need for consolidating values of brotherhood and humanity in the region. The Iraqi Presidency issued a statement, highlighting Rashid's stress on the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and collective action among people, recognizing the positive impact of the Holy See's messages in promoting understanding and calm.
President Rashid took the opportunity to showcase Iraq's strides in political and security stability, outlining the country's commitment to comprehensive development. Focus areas included improving citizens' living standards, repairing infrastructure, and driving economic development.
He reiterated Iraq's dedication to democracy, pluralism, and the protection of human rights. Addressing the relationship between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the federal government, President Rashid assured a commitment to resolving outstanding issues based on the Iraqi Constitution and the Law.
In a significant move, President Rashid affirmed the government's commitment to the vital role of Christian communities in Iraqi society. He pledged to facilitate the resettlement of Christians, Yezidis, and other indigenous communities in their homes, stating that the Presidency is open to addressing their demands, ensuring livelihoods, and preserving diversity. Furthermore, President Rashid condemned human rights violations in Palestine and the Gaza Strip, urging the international community to intensify efforts to prevent such violations, protect civilians, and facilitate humanitarian assistance.
Pope Francis, in turn, welcomed President Rashid, expressing the Holy See's support for Iraqi efforts in strengthening intercommunity relations and interfaith harmony. The Pope acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Christian community for a prosperous Iraq and underscored the importance of enhancing global peace opportunities.
In recent years, Iraq has stood out in the Middle East as a place where the Christian population has been growing, with the Kurdistan region earning a reputation as a welcoming and friendly place for Christians. The Kurdistan region, in particular, has been recognized as a Christian-friendly area, contributing to the increase in the number of Christians in Iraq. This trend is noteworthy in a region where such growth has been relatively uncommon.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani and US President Joe Biden are scheduled to meet on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York in September, the Iraqi newspaper Mada quoted a source close to Washington as saying.
The source added that the meeting will be held on the sidelines of the international meeting due to the complicated situation in Iraq and the Iranian issue.
However, the scheduled meeting between Biden and Sudan has not yet been determined.
A source close to the coordination said Sudani had rejected three invitations to visit Washington, because he was not sure of the US intentions, although he was interested in partnership and coordination with the US.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said it was "disheartening and absolutely unacceptable" that some wealthy countries had not brought their nationals home.
"To those countries, you must step up, you must take your responsibility," he told a meeting of the international anti-ISIS coalition that was attended by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
The "caliphate", which ISIS proclaimed across swathes of Iraq and Syria in 2014, was declared defeated in 2019 following counter-offensives in both Iraq and Syria.
Thousands of militants and their family members continue to be held in detention canters and informal camps where US commanders have warned they could fuel an IS revival.
Despite repeated calls for their repatriation, foreign governments have allowed only a trickle to return home, fearing security threats and domestic political backlash.
Blinken applauded countries, including Canada, that have brought home their nationals from Syria, urging other nations to follow suit.
"Repatriation is critical" to reduce populations of large informal camps such as Syria's Al-Hol, which houses 10,000 foreigners, including ISIS relatives, he said.
"Failure to repatriate foreign fighters risks that they may again take up arms," he told coalition partners, pledging $148.7 million for stabilization efforts for Iraq and Syria.
The anti-ISIS coalition was formed in 2014 following the militants' lightning advance that saw reports of atrocities multiply as they overran non-Muslim as well as Muslim areas.
Despite its territorial defeat, ISIS militants continue to conduct attacks against civilians and security forces in both Iraq and Syria.
The United Nations estimates that ISIS still has 5,000 to 7,000 loyalists across the two countries, roughly half of whom are fighters.
In April, the US-led coalition reported a significant drop in ISIS attacks in both Iraq and Syria since the start of the year.
ISIS attacks in Iraq dropped by 68 percent through April, while Syria saw a 55 percent decrease during the same period, the coalition said.
"The necessary measures have been taken to remove these groups from the border areas, and they have been settled in distant camps in the centre of Kurdistan," Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein told a press conference.
A year ago, Tehran launched several deadly missile and drone strikes on Kurdistan region.
The strikes came just after protests began in Iran over the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, 22, an Iranian Kurd arrested for allegedly breaching the Islamic republic's strict dress code.
Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region hosts camps and rear bases operated by several Iranian Kurdish factions, which Iran has accused of serving Western or Israeli interests in the past.
In March, the two countries signed a "security" agreement covering their common border.
Tehran last month said that, under the deal, Iraq should disarm the groups before September 19, remove them from their bases and transfer them to camps.
"The September 19 deadline will under no circumstances be extended," and Iran will "assume its responsibility" if Iraq does not comply, Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani said at the time.
Without raising the question of disarmament, Hussein said his country had "begun implementing the agreement" and that he would bring this message to Tehran during a visit on Wednesday.
"We expect from the Iranian side that they do not turn to violence against Kurdistan or against the sovereignty of Iraq", he emphasised.
Hussein said negotiations with Iran would focus on how "to stop these opposition groups from crossing the border and using weapons against the Iranian government".
They would also address the importance of "avoiding threats of violence, and threats of bombing certain areas of Iraqi Kurdistan".
Until now, the regional government of Iraqi Kurdistan has not spoken publicly about implementation of these measures, even though several meetings between officials of the Kurdistan region and Iran have taken place.
A Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) delegation is scheduled to return to Baghdad on Friday to discuss the Kurdistan Region's share in the Iraqi budget, KurdSat reporter in Baghdad said.
The delegation is to meet with the Ministries of Oil and Finance and advisors to the Presidency of the Iraqi Council of Ministers, our reporter added.
The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) delegation was scheduled to visit Baghdad on Sunday, but the meeting was postponed at the request of the Iraqi Oil Minister, KurdSat has learnt.
The recent talks between the KRG and Baghdad is centered on providing salaries for the KRG employees from Baghdad, which the latter has refused to spend.
Director General of Envoys and Cultural Relations of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Kurdistan region, Yasin Salih said they welcome the Iraqi prime minister's initiative to send 5,000 people to study abroad at the expense of the Iraqi government.
He said that last week, a delegation of higher education, with the relevant parties and advisors to the Iraqi prime minister and the head of the program to study abroad, met and learnt that 5,000 seats will be distributed among the Iraqi provinces and the Kurdistan Region according to the population.
The official also said that anyone can apply to the scholarships and the deadline is September 15th.
"The necessary measures have been taken to remove these groups from the border areas, and they have been settled in distant camps in the centre of Kurdistan," Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein told a press conference.
A year ago, Tehran launched several deadly missile and drone strikes on Kurdistan region.
The strikes came just after protests began in Iran over the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, 22, an Iranian Kurd arrested for allegedly breaching the Islamic republic's strict dress code.
Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region hosts camps and rear bases operated by several Iranian Kurdish factions, which Iran has accused of serving Western or Israeli interests in the past.
In March, the two countries signed a "security" agreement covering their common border.
Tehran last month said that, under the deal, Iraq should disarm the groups before September 19, remove them from their bases and transfer them to camps.
"The September 19 deadline will under no circumstances be extended," and Iran will "assume its responsibility" if Iraq does not comply, Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani said at the time.
Without raising the question of disarmament, Hussein said his country had "begun implementing the agreement" and that he would bring this message to Tehran during a visit on Wednesday.
"We expect from the Iranian side that they do not turn to violence against Kurdistan or against the sovereignty of Iraq", he emphasised.
Hussein said negotiations with Iran would focus on how "to stop these opposition groups from crossing the border and using weapons against the Iranian government".
They would also address the importance of "avoiding threats of violence, and threats of bombing certain areas of Iraqi Kurdistan".
Until now, the regional government of Iraqi Kurdistan has not spoken publicly about implementation of these measures, even though several meetings between officials of the Kurdistan region and Iran have taken place.
A Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) delegation is scheduled to return to Baghdad on Friday to discuss the Kurdistan Region's share in the Iraqi budget, KurdSat reporter in Baghdad said.
The delegation is to meet with the Ministries of Oil and Finance and advisors to the Presidency of the Iraqi Council of Ministers, our reporter added.
The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) delegation was scheduled to visit Baghdad on Sunday, but the meeting was postponed at the request of the Iraqi Oil Minister, KurdSat has learnt.
The recent talks between the KRG and Baghdad is centered on providing salaries for the KRG employees from Baghdad, which the latter has refused to spend.
Director General of Envoys and Cultural Relations of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Kurdistan region, Yasin Salih said they welcome the Iraqi prime minister's initiative to send 5,000 people to study abroad at the expense of the Iraqi government.
He said that last week, a delegation of higher education, with the relevant parties and advisors to the Iraqi prime minister and the head of the program to study abroad, met and learnt that 5,000 seats will be distributed among the Iraqi provinces and the Kurdistan Region according to the population.
The official also said that anyone can apply to the scholarships and the deadline is September 15th.
