In their meeting at the Élysée Palace, President Hollande and President Barzani discussed bilateral relations between France and the Kurdistan Region, the Syrian crisis and the situation of Syrian refugees there, the recent elections held in Kurdistan and in Iraq, and prospects for the formation of the new Iraqi government.

President Hollande welcomed President Barzani’s visit to Paris and reiterated his country’s support for the Kurdistan Region, expressing his hope that Kurdistan would continue to develop and prosper.

On the political situation in Iraq, President Barzani said that the recent election must provide an opportunity for real democracy and federalism to take root in Iraq; otherwise the country will face an uncertain future, he added.

The two also discussed economic relations and the role of French businesses in Kurdistan. President Hollande stated that French companies and businesses must be more active in Kurdistan. They also agreed to maintain their consultations on the crisis in Syrian and over the challenges facing the region in general.