PUK Stronger Than Ever, Says President Bafel Jalal Talabani

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Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the PUK at MERI Forum.

Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) has affirmed that the party is now more united than ever, pointing to the dramatic increase in votes in recent elections as proof of its strength.

Speaking at the MERI Forum 2025 (Shaping the Future: Visions for Peace and Prosperity), President Bafel Jalal Talabani emphasised that the party is now more united than ever, pointing to the dramatic increase in votes in recent elections as proof of its strength.

He also praised the administration in Sulaymaniyah, stating that, despite financial constraints, the city has seen unprecedented development through innovative investment strategies. “Sulaymaniyah is open for business, and this approach is attracting investors from across the region,” he said.

On governance, President Bafel stressed the importance of coalition politics, particularly in the formation of the Kurdistan Regional Government. He called for fair and transparent partnerships with the Kurdistan Democratic Party, emphasising that historical cooperation between the two parties has benefited the people of Kurdistan.

Regarding Iraq, President Bafel urged the development of a patriotic, independent political climate to encourage voter participation and reduce foreign influence. He also discussed the situation in Syria, advocating for Kurdish rights and reasonable decentralisation, while stressing that external powers should not dictate the country’s future.

On foreign relations, he emphasised the PUK’s balanced approach, maintaining strong ties with the US, Iran, Russia, China, and Europe, while using its unique position to mediate regional challenges.

President Bafel concluded with a call for peaceful solutions over violence. “Some problems cannot be resolved with force. Knowledge cannot be erased by force, and violence is not the answer,” he said, highlighting the importance of dialogue and measured diplomacy.



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