Iraqi President: Kirkuk must become a model of peaceful co-existence, long unresolved issues in Kirkuk need to be worked out according to the Iraqi Constitution, away from marginalization and exclusion

On Tuesday, June 14, 2022, the President of the Republic of Iraq, Barham Salih met with a delegation from the clan elders and dignitaries of Kirkuk. The meeting took place at al-Salam Palace in Baghdad.


Kirkuk is rich in its resources and its social diversity, and these should be reflected in the lifetime of the local people of the City, President Salih said.


Additionally, he highlighted that Kirkuk must be an example of how to be our country in terms of tolerance, peaceful co-existence and prosperity.


 Long unresolved issues in Kirkuk need to be worked out, he said, and this should be done by the Iraqi constitution and according to the will of the indigenous population of Kirkuk and away from marginalization and exclusion.


The indigenous populations of Kirkuk had been impacted by arbitrary measures, corruption and discrimination, and were marginalized for a long time, the President emphasized, that during the past period, they faced various security challenges.


Moreover, he underlined that the components of the Kirkuk people have proven to be more tolerant, that they are living together as brothers. 

The solution to unresolved issues must all be found in Kirkuk, and security and stability must be maintained in the City, he added, while tensions must be eased there.


 Any actions that could turn the city into an arena for differences and problems should be rejected, he said.


 The members of visiting delegation appreciated President Salih for his efforts and for his eagerness to follow the situations in Kirkuk. 

They also hailed his efforts for supporting security and stability in the city, and for his tireless efforts to meet the local people's demands.

 

Presedent