President Nechirvan Barzani emphasized, in a statement issued on Sovereignty Day, that protecting the country's stability and consolidating institutional prestige rely fundamentally on addressing the issue of weaponry and subjecting all forms of force to the rule of law and
the constitution. The statement clarified that Iraq's sovereignty, the independence of its national decision-making, its territorial integrity, and the safety of its institutions represent supreme constants that are non-negotiable, noting that the will of Iraqis and their supreme interests constitute
the fundamental criterion for shaping the country's present, future, and strategic choices. The President affirmed that the completion of sovereignty is closely linked to the existence of a strong state with solid institutions that holds a monopoly on sovereign decisions
and exercises its constitutional powers across the entire Iraqi geography, reiterating that determining the decision of war and peace is the exclusive right of the state and its official institutions. In the same context, he called upon all national and
political forces to shoulder their historical responsibilities by protecting the unity of the Iraqi decision, prioritizing the higher interest of the state over other considerations, and enhancing societal cohesion while shielding the country from any regional and international conflicts or
polarization. The statement addressed the conclusion of the international coalition's mission, considering it a significant turning point toward a new phase based on complete sovereignty, balanced partnerships, and mutual interests, while affirming Baghdad's aspiration to develop ties of political, economic,
trade, and cultural cooperation with various nations worldwide. The President concluded his speech by commemorating the sacrifices of the martyrs from the armed forces, police, Popular Mobilization Forces, Peshmerga, tribal mobilization, and all those who defended the homeland against ISIS,
extending a salute to those who contributed to safeguarding Iraq's security and unity so that it remains free, proud, and fully sovereign.
