May welcomed the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) recognition of Iraqi Federal Supreme Court’s decision that Iraq is unified and indivisible, and reiterated continued respect for the territorial integrity and unity of Iraq.

“She said the UK would continue to fight to protect the identity and rights of the Kurdish people under the Iraqi constitution,” the statement read.

Both leaders agreed on the importance of dialogue between the Kurdistan Region and Baghdad, the statement added.

According to NRT they also agreed on negotiating an agreement over Iraqi federal control and joint management of the borders as well as a resumption of international flights to the region’s airports.

May also urged the KRG for continued reform in political, economic and security sectors to strengthen the region’s institutions, her office said.

The British prime minister also said, “She would be pleased to see Prime Minister Barzani in London in due course to make further progress on these matters,” it added.

Reporter’s code: 50101