ERBIL — The Kurdistan Region’s two ruling parties, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), have reported significant progress in government formation talks, with a key meeting expected later this week.  

"There is an understanding and consensus on many political and administrative issues with the PUK, but further discussions are needed. We expect the announcement of a unified parliament, government, and armed force soon," the KDP’s central committee stated following a meeting on Saturday.  

Bestun Fayeq, an advisor to the PUK leader, confirmed that most disagreements have been resolved and that a high-level meeting between the two parties will take place this week. However, some outstanding issues remain.  

In the October 20 elections, no single party secured a majority, necessitating a coalition government. The KDP won 39 seats in the 100-member parliament, followed by the PUK with 23. The New Generation Movement, which secured 15 seats, has opted to remain in opposition after rejecting offers to join the government without significant power.  

The PUK has expressed a preference for a two-party coalition, arguing that involving more parties would lead to greater political complexity. The KDP and PUK, despite their rivalry, have shared power in Kurdistan’s government since the 1990s, making their agreement central to forming a stable administration.