United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres visited the semi-autonomous region of Iraqi Kurdistan on Thursday and assured that he sees »very possible» a »significant progress» in the area, after having also visited Baghdad in the previous days.
The UN stands with the people of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region to help build the better future they deserve,» he remarked during a press conference, although he stressed that to achieve »a better tomorrow» it is necessary »action today».
During his talks on the area’s relationship with Baghdad, he noted the need to change the essence of the relationship between the two regions »from constant crisis management to a more structured, institutionalized and fruitful dialogue».
»There are several aspects that require agreement,» he has explained, »including the federal budget for 2023 and the law for oil and gas, stronger security cooperation, speedy implementation of the Sinjar agreement and completion of the Kirkuk dialogue.»
Guterres has shared his optimistic vision for the region: »In my talks here and in Baghdad I have sensed a genuine commitment to move forward, and I encourage everyone to translate this commitment into reality.»
For this, he added, it is vitally important to make progress on this year’s postponed parliamentary elections: »Good governance, respect for human rights, as well as inclusive electoral and political processes, are the basis for prosperous stability and diversity. Diverse and even opposing views, as well as constructive criticism, are the essence of any democracy».
Source: (EUROPA PRESS)
