PUK revives long dead committee to carry out article 140

PUK revives long dead committee to carry out article 140

kurdsatnews

Nov 29, 2022

Kirkuk, Kurdistan region.

Iraqi Minister of Justice Khalid Shwani said on his Facebook page that he thanked PUK President Bafel Jalal Talabani for reviving the High Committee for Implementing article 140, suspended in 2014 following an escalated dispute between Baghdad and Erbil.

"I would like to thank the President of PUK Bafel Jalal Talabani for always prioritizing the issue of the disputed territories in his meetings with the parties, and for constantly following up on the matter, and supporting us," the justice minister said.

Speaking to KurdSat English, a former member of the Iraqi House of Representatives Jamal Shukur said," President Jalal Talabani has always placed particular importance on the deprived territories [ a reference to the disputed territories] especially Kirkuk, and President Bafel Jalal Talabani now follows his footsteps."

Per the 2005 Iraqi constitution, the implementing committee is tasked with settling the disputes territories between Baghdad and the Kurdistan region. The constitution states that a committee shall carry out a plebiscite in the disputes lands to decide who would govern them, Erbil or Baghdad.

The minister also explained that reviving the committee has been part of the agreements made for participating in the Al-Sudani government. "The prime minister re-established the High Committee for the Implementation of Article 140, which was dissolved in 2014," Shuani added.

The minister also added that the committee would meet within ten days to prepare an estimated budget to compensate those covered by Article 140 and submit it to the Council of Ministers to be included in the general budget. His statement reveals that the committee members are chosen and ready to begin work.

Latest News

Kurdistan2 years ago

KRG expected to resume oil export

Bassem Mohammed, Iraqi Deputy Oil Minister, disclosed that the imminent meeting aims to address key aspects of the oil export resumption. He emphasized the expectation of reaching a consensus during the discussions, leading to a formal agreement for the recommencement of oil exports. Additionally, Mohammed underscored the companies' expressed interest in maintaining their operations within the Kurdistan Region.

He articulated, "The contracts under consideration must align with the framework established in the agreements signed with the UAE Crescent Company during the fifth phase of licensing." This statement emphasizes the importance of consistency and adherence to established precedents in fostering successful collaboration between the involved parties.

The anticipated meeting signals a pivotal moment in the ongoing negotiations between the KRG and oil companies, marking a proactive step toward revitalizing oil export activities in the Kurdistan Region. As the discussions unfold, stakeholders remain optimistic about the potential for a mutually beneficial agreement that will not only resume oil exports but also pave the way for sustained collaboration in the region.

World2 years ago

Iraqi President Latif Rashid Meets Pope Francis at the Vatican, Emphasizing Interfaith Harmony and Regional Stability

President Rashid emphasized the urgent need for consolidating values of brotherhood and humanity in the region. The Iraqi Presidency issued a statement, highlighting Rashid's stress on the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and collective action among people, recognizing the positive impact of the Holy See's messages in promoting understanding and calm.

President Rashid took the opportunity to showcase Iraq's strides in political and security stability, outlining the country's commitment to comprehensive development. Focus areas included improving citizens' living standards, repairing infrastructure, and driving economic development.

He reiterated Iraq's dedication to democracy, pluralism, and the protection of human rights. Addressing the relationship between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the federal government, President Rashid assured a commitment to resolving outstanding issues based on the Iraqi Constitution and the Law.

In a significant move, President Rashid affirmed the government's commitment to the vital role of Christian communities in Iraqi society. He pledged to facilitate the resettlement of Christians, Yezidis, and other indigenous communities in their homes, stating that the Presidency is open to addressing their demands, ensuring livelihoods, and preserving diversity. Furthermore, President Rashid condemned human rights violations in Palestine and the Gaza Strip, urging the international community to intensify efforts to prevent such violations, protect civilians, and facilitate humanitarian assistance.

Pope Francis, in turn, welcomed President Rashid, expressing the Holy See's support for Iraqi efforts in strengthening intercommunity relations and interfaith harmony. The Pope acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Christian community for a prosperous Iraq and underscored the importance of enhancing global peace opportunities.

In recent years, Iraq has stood out in the Middle East as a place where the Christian population has been growing, with the Kurdistan region earning a reputation as a welcoming and friendly place for Christians. The Kurdistan region, in particular, has been recognized as a Christian-friendly area, contributing to the increase in the number of Christians in Iraq. This trend is noteworthy in a region where such growth has been relatively uncommon.

Middle East2 years ago

Israeli Defense Minister announces 'complete siege' on Gaza

Earlier on Sunday, footage from both Ashkelon and Sderot cities also showed army tanks in the streets as they reportedly moved towards the border with Gaza.

On Saturday, Hamas launched its biggest attack on Israel in decades, firing thousands of rockets and sending fighters who infiltrated Israeli towns near the Gaza Strip. The group said its attack was in response to Israeli violations in the flashpoint Al-Aqsa Mosque complex in occupied East Jerusalem and increased settler violence.

At least 700 Israelis, including 73 Israeli soldiers, have been killed and over 2,300 others wounded in the attack, according to the Israeli Health Ministry.

Israel retaliated, with the Israeli army initiating Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas with a series of airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, killing more than 430 Palestinians and wounding at least 2,300 others.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to use all of Israel’s strength to destroy Hamas’ capabilities and “take revenge for this black day.”