Qubad Talabani Meets US Deputy Secretary of State to Discuss Strengthening Ties and Regional Security

Kurdistan 02:16 PM - 2025-12-03

Qubad Talabani welcomes Michael Rigas.

Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, received Michael Rigas, the United States Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, on Wednesday, 3 December 2025, to discuss relations between the Kurdistan Region and the United States, as well as several matters of mutual interest.

At the start of the meeting, Talabani congratulated the US on opening its largest consulate in the Kurdistan Region, describing it as a significant milestone that underscores the strength and importance of bilateral relations. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen US-Kurdistan ties. Talabani emphasised that all cities and regions of Kurdistan remain open to US engagement, particularly in security, economy, trade, and cultural cooperation.

The discussion also covered the recent attack on the Khor Mor gas field. Both parties agreed that the terrorist attack targeted the Kurdistan Region’s economic and energy infrastructure and stressed that such attacks must be prevented. Talabani highlighted that the repeated targeting of vital infrastructure demonstrates the need for continued and enhanced coordination with the United States.

On the formation of the new cabinet, Talabani stated that the Kurdistan Region is prepared to establish a government founded on balance and genuine partnership, serving all citizens and regions without discrimination.

Regarding the Peshmerga forces and reforms within the Ministry of Peshmerga, both sides agreed that the reform process would continue as planned. Talabani thanked the United States for its support and emphasised that the objective remains a professionally trained, national Peshmerga force free from party affiliation or external interference.



PUKMEDIA