Statement of the Iraqi Kurdistan
National Assembly

On Wednesday 19th February 2003, a parliamentary session was held to deliberate the current situation in Kurdistan and the crisis facing Iraq. The possibilities of a military attack on Iraq were evaluated. The assembly expressed its thanks and appreciation to all those countries which came to help our people and provide humanitarian assistance and shelter during the 1991 mass exodus.

Iraqi Kurdistan National Assembly also expressed its strong opposition and concern over any Turkish or regional intervention into the internal affairs of the Iraqi Kurdistan region under any pretext, which would be resisted using all capabilities. The IKNA believes there is no doubt that any such intervention would further complicate the situation in the whole of Iraq, and in the region in particular.

In the face of such a threat, all Iraqi Kurdistan political parties, community and professional organizations, and both administrations of the Kurdistan Regional Government should take an appropriate coordinated stand. We declare that we will fully respect the security of the international borders of our regional neighbours and we will safeguard the general and joint interests of all.

On behalf of the people of Iraqi Kurdistan, the IKNA urges the US government and its allies to prevent any incursion by Turkish troops or other regional troops from entering Iraqi Kurdistan.

We hope that the US will respect and seriously consider our legitimate request.

25 February 2003