Preliminary data reveal that 93% of Kurds have voted for independence from Iraq, RIA Novosti reports.

Only 9% of the ballots have been counted so far though.

The poll on support for Kurdish independence is non-binding and not recognized by Baghdad.

Large numbers of people have taken part in the landmark vote, with a big victory for "yes" expected.

The referendum passed off peacefully across the three provinces that make up the region, and turnout was estimated at about 72%, according to the electoral commission.

It was reported earlier that Armenian will be among the five official languages if Kurds vote to become an independent state.