Iraqi Prime Minister-Designate to Visit Sulaymaniyah, Meet PUK President

Iraqi PM's Media Office

Iraqi Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi.

Iraqi Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi is scheduled to visit Sulaymaniyah on Saturday, 2 May 2026, where he is set to meet Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK).

On 27 April 2026, Iraq's Coordination Framework, as the largest bloc in the Iraqi parliament, announced the nomination of al-Zaidi as its candidate for prime minister, after which Iraqi President Nizar Amidi formally assigned al-Zaidi with forming the new cabinet. 

President Bafel congratulated al-Zaidi on being tasked with forming the new federal government, pledging to support the new government and continue efforts to strengthen cooperation in the interest of the people.

"We extend our best wishes to Mr. Ali al-Zaidi in this important task. We will help him succeed in forming a capable and inclusive government and to help that government move Iraq out of the economic and security crises it faces," he said.

"We will support the new government and continue our efforts to strengthen cooperation in the interest of our people."

Meanwhile, President Amedi stated that the appointment reflects a commitment to the constitution “in both letter and spirit” and marks the beginning of a process aimed at forming a successful government. He stressed that safeguarding Iraq’s national interests remains the guiding principle, adding that stability can only be achieved through partnership and prioritising the public good.

The Coordination Framework confirmed that it recently held discussions with the Prime Minister-designate on government formation. According to a statement, the meeting addressed key political, security and economic issues, with emphasis placed on completing the formation process within the constitutional timeframe.



PUKMEDIA