WASHINGTON DC - The United States’ new consulate in Erbil will enhance diplomatic cooperation with the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and Iraq, a US State Department spokesperson said on Monday. Tammy Bruce, the US State Department spokesperson, told Rudaw in a press briefing that “the new and largest US consulate in Erbil is expected to open later this year,” adding that “it reflects the United States' commitment to the Iraqi Kurdistan Region.” Bruce emphasized that “the new consulate will strengthen our partnership and diplomatic cooperation with the Kurdistan Regional Government [KRG] and the Government of Iraq on shared priorities and challenges, including countering extremism and fostering long-term peace.” The United States has maintained strong ties with both the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, providing millions of dollars in annual aid to the Kurdish Peshmerga, a key ally in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS). Washington initially established its diplomatic office in Erbil in February 2007 and later upgraded it to a consulate general in 2011. Bruce also commented on the ongoing talks between the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) over the formation of the upcoming KRG. “We have encouraged all sides to swiftly form a government and a strong and resilient democracy,” which is “necessary to preserve the stability and security of Iraq,” the US spokesperson said. She stressed, “We encourage them to form that government and to do so quickly.” The Kurdistan Region held delayed parliamentary elections in October which saw the KDP emerge on top, securing 39 seats in the 100-member legislature. Meanwhile, the PUK came in second with 23 seats. Since no single party won a majority, a governing coalition is traditionally established to agree on a government formation. In early March, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister and KDP deputy leader Masrour Barzani met with PUK leader Bafel Talabani in Erbil. The two sides announced they had made “very good” progress in the government formation process. Additionally, KRG Deputy Prime Minister and senior PUK member Qubad Talabani stated in early March that the KDP and PUK had reached an agreement on the final draft of an accord to form the new cabinet. A PUK spokesperson, Saadi Ahmad Pira, confirmed to Rudaw on Sunday that the distribution of posts in the upcoming KRG cabinet will be decided in the coming days.
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