Iraqi security council rejects Kurdistan referendum

BAGHDAD, Sept 17 (KUNA) -- The Iraqi Ministerial Council for National Security has announced rejection of Kurdistan independence referendum scheduled for September 25.
In a statement following its meeting Sunday under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister Haider Al-Abadi, the Iraqi ministerial council reaffirmed its position that it would protect the unity of Iraq and the safety of all citizens.
It added that said it would stop every effort that would threaten the security of the country and its citizen.
"The council rejects the referendum of the Kurdistan Region because it is unconstitutional and it represents a threat to the national security and unity of Iraq," the statement read.
Instead, it stressed on the importance of dialogue to resolve the outstanding issues rather than jeopardizing the security of the country. (end) ahh.ibi