Erbil, Kurdistan, Iraq (DFR.krg.org) – The Head of the KRG Department of Foreign Relations, Minister Falah Mustafa, welcomed the new Head of the Dutch Embassy Liaison Office in Erbil and expressed his government’s gratitude for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and non-lethal military equipment by the Netherlands.

Minister Mustafa congratulated Mr John van der Zande, the new Head of the Liaison Office, on assuming the post, assuring him of the KRG’s continued support for the Dutch mission in Kurdistan.

Mr van der Zande discussed the two shipments of humanitarian assistance already delivered to Erbil by the Netherlands. He also informed Minister Mustafa that the Dutch government has decided to provide non-lethal military equipment to KRG’s Peshmerga forces, beginning with one thousand combat helmets and one thousand bulletproof vests.

Minister Mustafa expressed his government’s appreciation and gratitude regarding these measures. He highlighted the importance of receiving continued support from the international community, emphasising the KRG’s commitment to combat the terrorists.

Both sides also discussed the well-established bilateral relationship between Kurdistan and the Netherlands, exchanging ideas on areas for further cooperation in economic, cultural, and political fields.

The Minister noted his government’s appreciation of the efforts and services of Mr Peter van Leeuwen, Mr van der Zande’s predecessor. Ms Siham Jabali, Assistant Head of the KRG Foreign Relations Department, also attended the meeting.