The federal government is in the midst of a complicated government formation process, but also faces a massive economic challenge caused by the sharp fall in the price of oil over the last two months.

“During the meeting, they discussed Iraq’s political developments and both of them highlighted the necessity of solving the crisis and disputes in order to bring tranquility and of paying attention to the lives and livelihoods of the Kurdistan Region’s people,” the KRG said in a statement.

They also discussed the formation of the new federal government. Several ministries remain unfilled, including two expected to go to Kurds, NRT reported.

Salih and Barzani also expressed their joint commitment to working to resolve issues between Erbil and Baghdad within the context of the constitution and cooperating to fight terrorism.

They both stressed the need for unity and cooperation within the Kurdistan Region, the statement added.

Reporter’s code: 50101