Baghdad and Erbil Strengthen Coordination on Border Security and Combating Smuggling

Iraqi National Security Adviser Qasim Al-Aboudi held talks in Erbil with Kurdistan Democratic Party leader Masoud Barzani, focusing on enhancing coordination between the federal government and the Kurdistan Region regarding border security and the fight against smuggling. Al-Aboudi led a security delegation on a visit aimed at addressing joint security issues and following up on the security agreement between Iraq and Iran.

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the overall situation inside Iraq

The meeting between Al-Aboudi and Barzani covered the general situation in Iraq, alongside recent regional and international developments. Both sides emphasized the importance of continued coordination and cooperation in securing borders, maintaining stability, and exchanging information to counter smuggling and terrorism. Al-Aboudi conveyed a commitment from Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi to exert all efforts for the security and stability of the Kurdistan Region and all Iraqi cities.

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the continued coordination and cooperation between Baghdad and Erbil in securing the borders, maintaining security and stability, and strengthening security cooperation, as well as exchanging information to prevent smuggling and combat terrorism.

Concurrently, a Higher Committee responsible for implementing the joint security agreement between Iraq and Iran convened in Erbil. Chaired by Al-Aboudi, the meeting included a delegation from the Kurdistan Regional Government headed by Interior Minister Reber Ahmed. The discussions centered on the specifics of the security agreement, particularly measures to secure borders, prevent infiltration, and ensure security and stability within Iraq.

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the federal government is committed to making every effort to maintain the security and stability of the Kurdistan Region and all Iraqi cities.

The committee reviewed the agreement's implementation, stressing the need for ongoing communication and coordination between the federal and regional governments. This is in line with directives from the commander-in-chief of the armed forces and aims to serve Iraq's interests and sovereignty. The meeting is part of broader efforts to address the presence of Iranian Kurdish opposition groups in the Kurdistan Region, as stipulated by the security agreement between Iraq and Iran, which seeks to prevent Iraqi territory from being used for attacks against Iran.

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the security agreement, particularly measures to secure the borders, prevent infiltration and smuggling, and maintain security and stability in Iraq.