Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani received the Ambassador of the Philippines to Iraq, Mr. Generoso Calonge, in Erbil on Monday.

At the meeting, Iraq and the Kurdistan Region’s relations with the Philippines, the Pilipino community and work force in the Kurdistan Region, and the upcoming elections in Iraq were highlighted. Discussions also focused on Erbil-Baghdad relations, combating terror and extremism, COVID-19 pandemic, its economic implications and the ongoing vaccination efforts.

It was affirmed that terrorism and extremism cannot be countered by resorting to military means alone, but all forms of radicalization must also be addressed through education and cultural activism.

Ambassador Calonge referred to his country’s continued efforts against extremism and terrorism and reiterated the Philippines’ willingness to benefit from the experiences of the Kurdistan Region in combating extremism.

Discussions also covered Iraq and the Kurdistan Region’s relations with the Philippines and ways to further develop their cooperation and partnership in areas of mutual interest.