On December 13, 2023, the Council of Ministers of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), led by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and attended by Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani, convened to deliberate various issues.
The session opened with a discussion on the tragic fire incident in Soran on December 8, 2023, which resulted in 14 fatalities and multiple injuries. The meeting focused on rescue operations and the investigation into the fire's causes.
The Electricity Minister Kamal Mohammed then presented a detailed report on the region's electricity situation. This included insights into the power outage of November 30, and ongoing projects by the ministry to enhance electricity production and ensure consistent supply.
Finance and Economy Minister Awat Sheikh Janab outlined the results of the KRG's recent visit to Baghdad, which he and Interior Minister Rebar Ahmad attended. The visit centered on bolstering cooperation with the Iraqi government regarding border crossings and customs, in line with the Kurdistan Region's federal status. Discussions also included strategies for diversifying revenue sources.
The Council announced December 18 as a public bank holiday, coinciding with Iraq's Provincial Council Elections.
In recognition of Christmas and New Year, the Council extended greetings to the Christian community and declared an official bank holiday from December 25, 2023, to January 1, 2024. Emergency services will remain operational throughout this period.