Baghdad:Kurdistan Regional Government Deputy PM Qubad Talabani highlighted the significance of the International Coalition’s withdrawal from Iraq and the return of full security responsibility to the country as a pivotal moment for both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

According to Iraqi News Agency, Talabani expressed gratitude for the Coalition’s support to the Peshmerga forces and the Iraqi Army during the conflict against terrorism and its role in maintaining Iraq and the Kurdistan Region’s security and stability. He also paid tribute to the martyrs from the Peshmerga, Iraqi Army, and Coalition forces.

Talabani acknowledged the Coalition’s vital assistance during three key periods: the establishment of the no-fly zone in 1991, the 2003 overthrow of the Ba’athist regime, and the fight against Daesh terrorists post-2014. He emphasized that the current transition of security responsibilities signifies a major milestone for Iraq’s federal and regional governments and political forces, urging cooperation to uphold the country’s sovereignty and stability through constitutional adherence.

He further stressed the historic responsibility of Kurdistan’s political forces to unify and strengthen governance institutions, ensuring that the region’s achievements are maintained through citizen support. Talabani reaffirmed the strong cooperation between the federal and regional governments, noting the readiness of the Kurdistan Peshmerga forces to defend the region against any threats.