Kurds, Shi'ite agree on leadership positions

"The son of Kurdish leader Jalal Talabani said yesterday the Kurds and Ibrahim al-Jaafari have agreed on who will be president and prime minister in a new government, but have yet to decide on the status of Kirkuk, a contested northern Iraqi city with significant oil wealth."

"Under the deal, the Kurdish chief would assume the presidency while Mr. al-Jaafari, a Shi'ite, would lead the government as prime minister."

"Both Kurdish and Shi'ite sources said Kurdish leaders also were holding closed-door meetings with current Prime Minister Iyad Allawi to see whether forming an alliance with the secular Shi'ite might win them more concessions."

FULL STORY at  http://www.washtimes.com/world/20050303-115731-4197r.htm