Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq (cabinet.gov.krd) – Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani received General Tom Beckett, UK special envoy for security affairs, Frank Baker, UK Ambassador to Iraq, and a number of British military officials.

In the meeting also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani and Acting Minister of Peshmerga Affairs Karim Sinjari, the delegation expressed appreciation for the cooperation received in the international coalition team assisting to reform the Ministry.  In seeking approval of the KRG Council of Ministers, the reform project will be discussed in an upcoming session. The delegation reiterated the UK will continue its military assistance.

General Beckett also expressed his appreciation for the great success the Peshmerga have achieved in the fight against terrorism. He commended the cooperation and coordination between the Peshmerga and Iraqi army in military efforts to liberate Mosul. General Beckett also highlighted the importance of an inclusive political process accompanying cooperation in military operations.

Prime Minister Barzani expressed his government’s appreciation for the British Government’s continued assistance to the Kurdistan Region. He also stated his appreciation of the international team assisting to reform the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs.

The team intends to help the KRG in its efforts to build a professional and modern Peshmerga force.

Prime Minister Barzani also commended the close coordination between the Peshmerga and the Iraqi army in the battle to liberate Mosul. He also stressed that it is essential for Baghdad to start a comprehensive political process for the post-Mosul liberation so people in the region can return to their homes with confidence.

Prime Minister Barzani also reiterated that it is necessary to have frank dialogue in order to reach suitable solutions to the issues between Erbil and Baghdad.