Erbil, Kurdistan Region
December 23, 2024

President Nechirvan Barzani welcomed Mr. Ruben Brekelmans, Minister of Defence of the Netherlands, and his accompanying delegation.

In a meeting that included Vice President Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa, Minister of Peshmerga Affairs, the Dutch Ambassador to Iraq, and several officials from both sides, the focus was on the relationship between the Netherlands, Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. A particular emphasis was placed on defense and military training initiatives.

The two sides emphasized the importance of maintaining collaboration among Peshmerga forces, the Iraqi Army, and the Dutch forces as part of the International Coalition dedicated to combating terrorism.

The meeting included a discussion of the political and security landscape in Iraq and the wider region, highlighting the Kurdistan Region's contribution to enhancing stability, as well as the initiatives aimed at reforming and unifying the Peshmerga within the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs.

President Nechirvan Barzani expressed his gratitude to the Netherlands for its ongoing assistance to the Peshmerga in their battle against ISIS, highlighting the significant contribution of Dutch forces in enhancing the training and capabilities of the Peshmerga.

The Dutch Minister of Defense spoke of his nation's dedication to bolstering the security and stability of both the Kurdistan Region and Iraq as a whole. He highlighted the importance of the Kurdistan Region as a vital bulwark against terrorism and in promoting regional security.

The two sides agreed on the importance of ongoing collaboration and shared perspectives regarding the circumstances of the Yazidis and their safe return to their home areas. They also discussed recent developments in the region, particularly the changes occurring in Syria and their implications, along with other issues of mutual concern.

Erbil, Kurdistan Region
December 22, 2024

President Nechirvan Barzani welcomed the distinguished Turkish writer and sociologist İsmail Beşikçi. The President expressed appreciation on behalf of the people of Kurdistan for Mr. Beşikçi’s efforts in advocating for and defending Kurdish rights. He further commended the Ismail Beşikçi Foundation for its efforts particularly in Kurdology.

Mr. Beşikçi conveyed his satisfaction with his visit to the Kurdistan Region, noting its advancements, and reaffirmed his unwavering support for the legitimate rights of the Kurdish people. He also expressed a sense of optimism regarding the future prospects for the people of Kurdistan.

The meeting included the Governor of Erbil, several lecturers from Salahaddin University, and the managers of the Ismail Beşikçi Foundation.

Erbil, Kurdistan Region
December 22, 2024

President Nechirvan Barzani met with Italy’s Defense Minister Guido Crosetto in Erbil.

The meeting, attended by Kurdistan Region Vice President Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa, the Minister of Peshmerga Affairs, the Italian Ambassador to Iraq, and senior officials from both sides, underscored Italy’s ongoing military and diplomatic engagement with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Discussions focused on the contributions of Italian forces in combating terrorism, the current situation in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, as well as the potential threat posed by the resurgence of ISIS.

President Barzani extended his appreciation to Italy for its steadfast support, particularly in the fight against terrorism and its efforts to strengthen Iraq and the Kurdistan Region’s security infrastructure. He reiterated the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to working with Italy and other partners to ensure peace and stability in the region.

Defense Minister Crosetto reaffirmed Italy’s strong partnership with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, praising the Peshmerga forces for their critical role in defeating ISIS. He highlighted the importance of sustained international collaboration to address shared security challenges and stressed Italy’s commitment to supporting the region.

They also discussed the resurgence of ISIS and acknowledged that it continues to pose a considerable threat to the security and stability of Iraq, Syria, and the wider region. This means that sustained support is required. They also touched on the crucial role of the International Coalition in supporting Iraq and the Kurdistan Region and highlighted the importance of Iraq maintaining a neutral stance in regional matters and conflicts.

Recent developments in the region, especially those taking place in Syria and their impact on several issues of shared interest, were another topic of conversation during the meeting.

Erbil, Kurdistan Region
December 17, 2024

A ceremony was held to commemorate Kurdistan Flag Day at the Kurdistan Region Presidency today, during which President Nechirvan Barzani and Vice President Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa raised the Kurdistan flag. Following this, the President of the Kurdistan Region addressed the attendees with a speech on the significance of the occasion:

Esteemed relatives of martyrs,
Brave Peshmergas,
Respected Security forces,
My fellow Kurdistanis,

Good day

Happy Kurdistan Flag Day.

I am honored to take part in this ceremony today, celebrating Kurdistan Flag Day alongside the Vice President of the Kurdistan Region, Mr. Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa. This event holds great significance for the people of Kurdistan. It allows us to pay tribute to a vibrant symbol that embodies our national identity and pride, fostering unity among us despite our diverse backgrounds, as we come together for a noble purpose.

This flag, adorned with vibrant colors and a golden sun, symbolizes the struggles and aspirations of the people of Kurdistan across all their communities. It represents the nation, the glory, the unity, and the shared destiny of all the people of Kurdistan.

When we gaze upon our flag, it embodies the suffering and sacrifices, the glory and pride, the freedom and peace, the renewal and prosperity, as well as the hope and collective struggle of the diverse communities of Kurdistan.

The flag of Kurdistan has persevered through numerous challenges and adversities, upheld by devoted individuals. Consequently, our nation and its people are progressing towards a more promising future, filled with hope and assurance.

My fellow Kurdistanis,

This year, we observe the Kurdistan flag amidst a delicate situation in the region. The ramifications of the ongoing conflict and related events on peace and stability have raised significant concerns. Consequently, it is our collective duty and responsibility to strive for the preservation of peace and stability, which remains a paramount priority for the entire region.

The Kurdistan Region is dedicated to ongoing collaboration with all pertinent stakeholders in Iraq, the surrounding region, and the international community to alleviate tensions. We will collectively strive to enhance dialogue and pursue a peaceful resolution that safeguards the rights of all individuals, thereby ensuring a tranquil and stable future for the peoples of the region. The experience of Kurdistan in fostering peaceful coexistence can serve as a model for addressing crises and attaining lasting peace.

Today, the presence of the Kurdistan flag serves as a symbol of our unity. The collaboration among all political parties and communities in Kurdistan, particularly in light of the current regional circumstances, represents our strength and is essential for ensuring stability in the Kurdistan Region. Consequently, it is imperative that we unite our efforts and prioritize the welfare of our people above all other considerations.

We would like to highlight the significance and urgency of expediting the establishment of the new cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government. It is essential for the political parties to come to a consensus and accomplish this task promptly. In Iraq, we are prepared to collaborate with the federal government to address the issues through dialogue and mutual understanding.

My fellow Kurdistanis,

The flag of Kurdistan symbolizes our collective values that inform our vision and policies aimed at fostering a robust and cohesive civil society.

On this significant occasion, we reaffirm our commitment to the people of Kurdistan and the various communities within the Kurdistan Region. We will persist in our efforts to enhance peaceful coexistence, as we hold a strong belief in the importance of dialogue and the respect for unity. The foundations of society are essential to the stability of our nation.

We are dedicated to maintaining the culture of coexistence among diverse religious and ethnic groups. This diversity serves as a foundation of strength, beauty, and pride for the people of Kurdistan. We will continue to advocate for the preservation of the identity of all communities within the Kurdistan Region.

We are committed to promoting freedoms, human rights, equality, and justice, which serve as fundamental principles for the development of any advanced society. Additionally, our objective is to enhance institutions and guarantee the meaningful involvement of communities across all aspects of life.

We remain committed to our pursuit of resolving the issues through dialogue, as this is the sole path to eliminate conflicts and enhance solidarity and unity. Furthermore, we aim to bolster regional and international cooperation, positioning Kurdistan as a model of peace, development, coexistence, and stability.

My fellow Kurdistanis,

In light of the numerous challenges and complexities facing the region, we are confident that through our collective determination and capacity to resolve conflicts, we can contribute to the solution rather than exacerbate the issues. Let us collaborate to uphold peace and serve as a model for fostering stability and mutual cooperation.

We shall hoist the Kurdistan flag and reaffirm our commitment to pursue a promising future. A future where the Kurdistan Region stands as a beacon of hope in the region.

Long live the Kurdistan flag.

May peace rest upon the souls of the martyrs. We honor their sacrifice, and their memory will forever be cherished.

I extend my best wishes for a joyful day to everyone and would like to once again congratulate all on the occasion of Kurdistan Flag Day. A warm welcome to all.

Thank you.

Erbil, Kurdistan Region
December 17, 2024

President Nechirvan Barzani met with Major General Kevin C. Leahy, the Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve.

The meeting, which included the Minister of Peshmerga Affairs, focused on the recent developments concerning the current security landscape in Iraq and Syria. They emphasized the importance of enhancing collaboration between the Peshmerga forces, the Iraqi army, and international Coalition forces.

President Nechirvan Barzani underlined the importance of the Coalition’s ongoing support for Iraq. He commended their collaborative efforts with allies in addressing the terrorist threats and reiterated that sustained cooperation among all parties is essential for enhancing security in Iraq.

General Leahy acknowledged the significant contributions of the Kurdistan Region and the Peshmerga forces in combating terrorism. He reaffirmed the Coalition’s commitment to supporting both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region in maintaining peace and stability while addressing the ongoing threat posed by ISIS and ensuring regional stability.

Erbil, Kurdistan Region
December 17, 2024

President Nechirvan Barzani received the new Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Iraq, Mr. Jan Šnaidauf, on Tuesday afternoon. During the meeting, the President expressed his and the Kurdistan Region’s support for the success of the Ambassador's mission.

The newly appointed Czech Ambassador conveyed his delight in visiting the Kurdistan Region, emphasizing the significance his country places on its relationship with both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. He underscored the commitment to enhancing their collaboration across various sectors.

The two also engaged in discussions regarding the circumstances in Iraq and the recent developments within the region.

Erbil, Kurdistan Region
Thursday, December 12, 2024

President Nechirvan Barzani held a meeting with Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the Chief of the Defense Staff of the United Kingdom, alongside a distinguished military and diplomatic delegation.

Vice President Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa, Minister of Peshmerga Affairs, the Chief of Staff of the Peshmerga, and the British Ambassador to Iraq were also present. The meeting focused on the prevailing circumstances in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. It also addressed the swift changes currently occurring in the region, particularly in Syria, as well as Coalition forces' efforts to combat ISIS.

Discussions further touched on the United Kingdom's relations with both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

President Nechirvan Barzani expressed his appreciation for the ongoing support and involvement of the United Kingdom in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. He extended his gratitude to British forces for their contributions to the reform initiatives within the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs and for their efforts in the reunification of the Peshmerga.

Admiral Radakin reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing and bolstering collaborative efforts with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. He emphasized the significance of ongoing cooperation and coordination to effectively combat the threat of terrorism and uphold stability in the region.