Update from Kurdish Independence Conference in Kurdistan

A group of KNC members and invited speakers attending the KNC conference in Erbil, Kurdistan, Iraq on Nov. 10, 2005 met with the Speaker of the Kurdish Parliament, Adnan Mufty, on Nov., 9, 2005. He spoke about the revisions being made to the Kurdistan Regional Government constitution, and how it is being revised to be complementary with the Iraqi Federal constitution.

The parliament has members from all constituent groups in Kurdistan and guarantees freedom of religion. The approach of KNC to hold an academic forum to examine the idea of an independent Kurdistan was also discussed in the meeting. Adnan Mufty explained the position that though independence is the dream of every Kurd, such achievement may not be feasible due to the current geopolitical situation at this time.

The conference provides an opportunity for participants to freely express the multiple viewpoints on this topic. Other topics discussed at the meeting with the Speaker ranged from the possibility of exchange programs for Kurdish youth inside and outside the country to how environmental issues are being addressed in Kurdistan.

KNC members praised the Kurdish Parliament and its role in promoting democracy and stability in southern Kurdistan through diplomatic means.