Baghdad: President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid emphasized the importance of passing the oil and gas law and detailed legislation on revenue distribution to resolve ongoing disputes between the federal government and the provinces.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, in a televised interview, the President said, "The Arab-Kurdish Cultural Center represents an important step in promoting mutual understanding through the study of our shared history and destiny." He added that while the relationship between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government is positive, disputes remain primarily between the provinces and the federal government, though agreements are more prevalent than disagreements.
Rashid stressed the urgent need to pass the oil and gas law, noting that Parliament has not yet succeeded in passing this critical legislation. He highlighted the government's significant challenge in covering salaries, pointing out that payroll expenses account for over 80% of state revenues, compared to less than 6% in advanced countries, which requires urgent solutions.
The President underscored the necessity of ensuring free and fair elections without the misuse of power or resources for electoral purposes. He mentioned that the four presidencies have agreed on a document establishing electoral regulations, to be adopted by the Electoral Commission and other relevant authorities to organize the electoral process. Rashid denied reports about postponing elections or forming an emergency government, emphasizing the importance of public trust in holding fair elections on time. He noted that Iraq takes pride in conducting all electoral processes as scheduled.
Regarding environmental challenges, he pointed to the water crisis Iraq faces due to climate change, stressing the need to secure a fair share from neighboring countries, stop domestic waste, and adopt modern irrigation and agricultural methods.
On regional developments, the President emphasized that the ongoing aggression on Gaza negatively affects the entire region. He reaffirmed Iraq's consistent position in supporting the Palestinian people in attaining their legitimate right to self-determination, calling for an immediate end to the aggression, delivery of humanitarian aid, and prevention of famine.