Slemani — Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani on Sunday called for accelerating the unification of the Peshmerga forces and urged the federal government in Baghdad to provide the force with weapons and military equipment, describing the Peshmerga as an integral part of Iraq’s defense system.
Barzani made the remarks while attending the graduation ceremony of 210 officer cadets from the Qalachwalan Military College in Sulaymaniyah. The event was also attended by Qubad Talabani and senior government and military officials.
In his address, Barzani paid tribute to the late Kurdish leader Jalal Talabani, known as “Mam Jalal,” crediting him with establishing the military college as an institution dedicated to serving the country. He said the newly commissioned officers would contribute to strengthening and modernizing the Kurdistan Region’s defense capabilities.
The Kurdistan Region president described service in the Peshmerga as a fundamental element of Kurdish national identity, emphasizing the force’s historic role in defending the people of Kurdistan. He said protecting the dignity, legacy, and welfare of Peshmerga members remains a priority for the Kurdistan Regional Government.
Barzani also stressed the need to improve the living conditions and livelihoods of Peshmerga personnel, noting that the force has consistently defended human dignity and security across the region.
Addressing ongoing military reforms, he called for stronger political will to accelerate efforts aimed at unifying the Peshmerga forces under a single command structure. He urged Baghdad to fulfill its constitutional and national responsibilities by ensuring that the Peshmerga receive the weapons, equipment, and logistical support required to carry out their role within Iraq’s broader security framework.
On the political front, Barzani appealed to all parties in the Kurdistan Region to prioritize unity and consensus, describing cooperation among political forces as essential for achieving stability and progress.
He further reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to promoting peace and stability, saying the region would continue to serve as a constructive actor in addressing challenges and confronting security threats across the wider region.
The graduation ceremony marked the commissioning of 210 new officers, who are expected to join the ranks of the Peshmerga and contribute to the region’s defense and security institutions.
