ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Iraqi Parliament Speaker Mahmoud Al-Mashhadani on Wednesday stated that while Iraq has chosen a neutral stance in some regional affairs, it continues to face interference from its neighbours. Speaking at the opening discussion of the Erbil Forum 2025, Mashhadani highlighted, “Today, there is interference in our affairs,” elaborating that “the east interferes in our affairs and the north interferes in our affairs.” Mashhadani additionally linked many of Iraq’s domestic challenges and vulnerability to foreign interference, to the 2003 US-led invasion of the country. He argued that the invasion led to the “dismantling of the 80-year-old [Iraqi] state apparatus and exposed the country to sectarian conflicts and terrorism.” He also urged maintaining “good relations with the United States and other superpowers,” particularly in light of the “recrafting” of the Middle East map. Mashhadani pointed out that Iraq is now secure, and with “its growing economy,” it is well-positioned to “restore its regional foothold. The three-day Erbil Forum 2025, organized by Rudaw Research Center, is taking place at the Rotana Hotel in the Kurdistan Region’s capital. The event features speeches, interviews, and panel discussions focusing on key regional and global political issues. High-ranking officials, including Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid and Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani, have already participated in the event, delivering speeches. The Erbil Forum 2025 aims to foster in-depth discussions on Iraq's upcoming elections, the impact of regional conflicts on the Kurdistan Region, and the challenges Syria is facing following the December 8 ouster of Bashar al-Assad. Experts and political leaders from various countries will address issues of security, stability, and transitions in the Middle East, focusing on power dynamics and the role of international organizations in shaping the region's future.
