The High Referendum Council headed by KDP President Masoud Barzani met in Hewler’s Pîrman district on Thursday to discuss the controversial independence referendum scheduled for September 25.

After discussing the reactions highlighted by various circles against the scheduled referendum, the High Referendum Council announced that the referendum will be held as scheduled.

A statement released after the meeting said the following:

1- As there has been no stronger alternative offered yet, the referendum will take place on time unless a complete guarantee for independence is offered.

2- All doors to dialogue with Baghdad will be open.

3- It was decided that a delegation from the High Referendum Council will visit Baghdad on September 23 and discuss the latest situation.

4- It was decided that the secretary of the Council will publish both the rights of the people and the declaration of the general principles of the independent Kurdistan state before September 25.