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President Barzani met with local leaders to discuss the importance of University Quality rather than Quantity. His discourse on better education and development stressed international relations, technology, and modern scientific programs. This meeting was held at the University of Dohuk (UoD) and was attended by Governor Tamar Ramadan, UoD board and faculty, and members of both the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK).



Concern for the Kurdish language was expressed. There is a lot of hope in the efforts being made under the direction of the Minister of Education and the Higher Education Council to form a unified Kurdish language. Time is not an issue for this project as a unified language is critical because it represents a national symbol.



Development in the Iraqi internal situation in the Kurdistan Region, especially Article 140 from the Iraqi Constitution and its application, was a significant issue that was discussed in the meeting. Barzani stressed that time is needed to properly implement the article in saying, "It is possible to accept the postponing of Article 140 for three or four months but it must come after parliament agreement not by a political decision." The ownership of Kirkuk remains a point of contention in the whole of Iraq. Barzani stated, "All documents ensure Kurdish identity of Kirkuk, if that was not right then the objectors would have the right to demure. All events show its Kurdish identity." Barzani clarified the objectors are remaining members of Al Ba'ath Party who are trying to distort Kurdish issues.



Budgetary items, such as government employee salaries, were revealed to need regulation. According to international standards, 30-35% of the national budget is to be allocated for salaries. Inconsistently, Kurdistan uses 75% of its budget for government salaries. The financial constraint of Kurdistan cannot endure such a large portion of the budget to be consumed in this fashion. Barzani stated this imbalance is a result of the competition between the two Kurdish parties. Upon investigation of the KDP and PUK, the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) made a referendum to fight corruption. The referendum will hold each party responsible for their contribution to the current problem. It will also work to provide job opportunities in a self-sufficient society.



Another prominent topic of discussion was the Kurdish traditions that encourage leniency and coexistence. The phenomenon of slaying women and suicides needs to be addressed and a solution found. There is no circumstance that should affect someone to the point of open assault on women's freedoms. Barzani implied that a law is planned to be issued ensuring family rights. Barzani stated, "A Kurd should not feel that he is less than any other person. Then why are we using Arab names while we are proud of our Kurdish history?" The government is changing Arabic names for Kurdish ones within the region. This is not racism but a formal recognition of Kurdish leaders by renaming cities and centers such as Shekh Sae'ed, Nahri, and Mala Mostapha.



Concerning the discontent in Southern Iraq, Barzani said "the Kurds will not be a part of any conflict between Suni & Shi'ite. The Kurds already have an active participation in the government and hope other ethnicities participate as efficiently."



While addressing the issue of Turkish military maneuvers in Iraq, President Barzani stated that the KRG doesn't expect any trouble from the neighboring country and is willing to begin talks concerning the PKK. Barzani thinks this is a political issue for Turkey. The people's rights cannot be solved unless through politics. Barzani stated that this is no longer a military issue because the PKK has abandoned weapons and has changed its tactics. He hopes it is an outpouring of their internal crisis and stated, "No army can enter Iraqi territory because the time for threats is over." Barzani explained that Kurdistan doesn't take threats seriously. The government is also willing to extend talks especially as Turkey is benefiting from having many companies working in Kurdistan.



The conclusion of the meeting stressed three things: the importance for university professors to keep aware of the political situation, emphasizing the Kurdish role in Iraq, and diminishing the attempts at destroying the things the Kurds have acquired.