On Wednesday February 21, 2024, Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), held a meeting with Futoshi Matsumoto, the Japanese Ambassador to Iraq. Their discussions focussed on deepening the ties between Japan and the Kurdistan Region, with a special emphasis on the progress of various initiatives spearheaded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). These initiatives are aimed at improving critical infrastructure in the region, including water and sewerage systems as well as energy projects.

Ambassador Matsumoto reiterated Japan's commitment to supporting the Kurdistan Region's efforts towards maintaining security and stability. Prime Minister Barzani thanked Japan for its continued support and solidarity, highlighting his keen interest in fortifying the relationship between the Kurdistan Region and Japan.