“Monday’s meeting saw a convergence of views regarding the need to draw up a government able to meet the people’s demands for economic recovery, more job opportunities, adequate public services and reconstruction,” read a statement released by al-Abadi’s office after Monday’s meeting in Baghdad.

Relations between the Iraqi government and the KRG have remained strained since last September, when the latter held a referendum on Kurdish regional independence.

Meanwhile Ihsan al-Shemeri, Abadi’s advisor, told Baghdad al-Yaum news base that the Iraqi PM welcomed Barzani at a governmental palace and it shows that the two sides have discussed governmental issues far from any political alliances and coalitions.

The advisor further added that the two PMs also traded view on Iraq national unity and reconciliation.

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