KRG Assumes Security Responsibility

Multi-National Corps – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
RELEASE No. 200700601-03

ERBIL, IRAQ -The Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) took official control of three provinces from Multi-National Force – Iraq at a formal ceremony in Erbil, Iraq May 30.

“Today’s event nearly doubles the number of provinces under Iraqi control and marks the fifth, sixth and seventh provinces to assume security responsibility, demonstrating another bold and courageous step forward in this country’s movement toward an independent and secure nation,” said Major Gen. Benjamin Mixon, Multi- National Division – North commanding general.

The ceremony, held at a convention center in Erbil, was attended by National Security Advisor Dr. Mowaffaq al-Rubaie, the keynote speaker representing Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki.

“The strength of the Kurdistan Region means the strength of all Iraq and the weakness of any region means the weakness of the entire country,” Dr. al-Rubaie said in his speech at the ceremony.

The memorandum of understanding outlining the security handover was signed by KRG Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani, Major Gen. Mixon, and Multi-National Division – Northeast Commanding General Major General Yoon Young-Bum of the Korean Army.

“Here, we reiterate our commitment to the Iraqi constitution,” Barzani said at the ceremony. “This constitution is a reflection of the will and desire of the peoples of Iraq. It is the legal framework which will protect and secure the rights of all parties.”

The Kurdish region has been one of the most peaceful areas in Iraq over the past years. The region is often seen as taking the lead and demonstrating the necessary progress to self-govern and become prosperous.

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