(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) BAGHDAD, Sept 20 (KUNA) -- As the date for the Kurdistan independence referendum approaches, a number of Iraqi, Kurdish, and regional officials are still wrestling with the issue at hand, arguing for and against the decisive vote.
In Baghdad, Iraqi Vice President Nouri Al-Maliki said that his country refused any external interference with the situation in reference to the proposal by UN Secretary General's Envoy in Iraq Yankovich, which is backed by President Fuad Masum.
The UN initiative provides an unclear timetable for discussions and that would be counterproductive when taking into consideration that the vote will be held soon, said Al-Maliki.
He added that the referendum, which will takes place next week, is a national matter that needs an Iraqi solution.
However, the Iraqi Vice President thanked the UN for its initiative, affirming that officials in Kurdistan Iraq must abide by federal Iraqi constitution and end their referendum.
On the Kurdish side, Masoud Barzani -- President of Kurdistan -- said that organizing the referendum would not mean the end of the world, adding that if there was an alternative option, the Kurdish people will seek it.
Discussions between Baghdad and Ibril had been going on for two years to resolve matters; however, nothing seems to come into fruition, said Barzani.
Barzani called on the Kurdish people to get heavily involved in the September 25 referendum, affirming that it will realize their dream for an independent state.
The top Kurdish official also said that Kurdistan, in the future, will seek good relations with Baghdad and the Kurdish people would dedicate such policy.
The matter also had an impact on the region with Saudi Arabia expressing its eagerness for the referendum not to be held.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), a source said that the regional situation demands that the referendum be aborted because it will have a negative impact on efforts to counter terror.
Saudi Arabia stands in support with the Iraqi people on the matter, affirmed the source, adding that what have been achieved in the fellow Arab state should not be derailed by such controversial vote. (end) nh.gta
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