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	Statement on President Barzani’s Meeting with U.S. President Obama

Kurdistan Region Presidency
For Immediate Release

25 January 2010
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Today Masoud Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq was received at the Oval office by U.S. President Barack Obama.

During the meeting, President Barzani highlighted the significance of Iraq’s forthcoming elections and reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to a federal, democratic and pluralistic Iraq. Moreover, he stressed the importance for strategic long term US engagement with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

As outstanding issues remain unresolved in Iraq, President Barzani affirmed the necessity for Iraq’s constitution to be the arbiter of internal disputes, and informed President Obama that lasting stability in Iraq can be attained if and when Iraqis abide by, and implement, all the articles of the country’s constitution. He welcomed the important engagement of Vice President Biden and stated that through the deepening and broadening of the United States’ relations with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, there exists an opportunity to make significant progress on the many challenges facing the country.

In closing, President Barzani extended his appreciation for the United State’s sacrifices in Iraq and for its commitment to help the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government to resolve the outstanding issues. He reiterated that the leadership of the Kurdistan Region stands ready to continue playing a constructive role in building a secure, constitutional and prosperous Iraq.