In a pivotal meeting scheduled for Wednesday, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Council of Ministers, led by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, will address the ongoing challenges surrounding public employees' salaries and the Kurdistan Region's share in Iraq's three-year budget.

The meeting, attended by Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani, aims to navigate the pressing issues concerning civil servants' monthly salaries and the Kurdistan Region's allocation from Iraq's budget. The KRG has faced financial strain as it has not received its 12 percent share of the budget since its approval in June, prompting reliance on loans from Baghdad to cover essential expenses until September.

A recent KRG delegation visited Baghdad in late November to engage in discussions with Iraqi authorities, seeking resolution on outstanding budgetary and financial matters. Despite the predetermined 12 percent allocation, the funds have not been disbursed, leading the KRG to formally request additional financial assistance from the Iraqi capital to meet obligations until budgetary amendments can be enacted.

According to the initial agreement between the two governments, approximately 700 billion IQD ($538 million) is expected to be transferred monthly to the Kurdistan Region. However, the delay in budgetary disbursement has heightened concerns among public employees and underscored the financial strain faced by the KRG.

The outcome of the Council of Ministers' meeting will be closely monitored, as it is expected to provide insight into the region's economic future and the steps that will be taken to address the pressing salary and budgetary issues facing the Kurdistan Region.