Baghdad: The head of the Security Media Cell, Lieutenant General Saad Maan, announced that a joint security agreement has been reached between the federal government and the Kurdistan Region, covering approximately 17 strategic points. Maan emphasized that unified security decision-making is essential for consolidating stability and sovereignty, particularly as the deadline for the withdrawal of international coalition forces approaches.
According to Iraqi News Agency, the meeting was held at the office of the commander-in-chief of the armed forces and was chaired by Staff First Lieutenant General Abdul-Amir al-Shammari. It included key figures such as the commanders of the Counter-Terrorism Service and Border Ports Commission, as well as commanders of federal security agencies, the Peshmerga chief of staff, and representatives of security formations in Erbil and Sulaimaniyah.
Maan highlighted that the meeting addressed field and intelligence issues and training, stressing that Iraq is recovering and moving toward becoming an influential regional player through a single sovereign security decision within one state, without affecting the distinct role of the Peshmerga.
The agreement aims to strengthen security in areas of shared concern and activate two coordination brigades to prevent remnants of terrorist groups and smuggling gangs from exploiting geographical gaps or security vacuums. A committee led by the Border Ports Authority will conduct a comprehensive survey of border crossings and the border strip in the region, with the goal of closing unofficial crossings and retaining those that meet the required conditions under joint administration.
The measures will also focus on controlling unauthorized openings along the border and strengthening the deployment and role of border guard forces, supported by the Peshmerga, particularly along the Iraq-Turkey border. Furthermore, the meeting approved greater coordination through joint liaison centers in Erbil and Sulaimaniyah to pursue individuals wanted by the judiciary, address cases involving foreign workers violating residency laws, and deport them in coordination with Baghdad. Joint operations against drug trafficking networks will also be expanded.
Maan noted that the discussions were marked by ‘complete harmony and broad understanding,’ with no points of disagreement recorded.