In a significant visit to the province of Halabja on Thursday, February 22, 2024, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani of the Kurdistan Region commenced his trip by paying respects to the fallen at the Martyrs' Monument, where he laid a floral wreath in remembrance of the victims of a tragic crime.

Highlighting the commitment to development and progress in the region, the Prime Minister participated in a special ceremony, marking the laying of the foundation stone for the Halabja-Tawqut-Qalaja road project and the Tawqut Bridge. These projects are aimed at enhancing infrastructure in the province and easing movement between various areas.

During his address at the ceremony, Prime Minister Barzani underscored the significance of the projects, emphasizing their potential to bolster trade exchanges and revitalize the tourism sector in the region. He praised Halabja, Sharazur, and Hawraman for their rich cultural and intellectual heritage, hailing them as cradles of distinguished scholars, writers, poets, artists, and religious figures who have contributed significantly to the cultural renaissance of Kurdistan.

Moreover, the Prime Minister expressed pride in Halabja's record of low violence against women in Kurdistan, highlighting it as a testament to the region's societal maturity and rich cultural fabric.

Recognizing Halabja's agricultural prowess, particularly in pomegranate cultivation, Prime Minister Barzani emphasized the regional government's support for the agricultural sector, which has led to Kurdish pomegranates, especially those from Halabja, becoming a recognized brand in Gulf and global markets.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the people of Halabja, describing them as a symbol of Kurdish resilience against injustice. He lamented the inadequate services provided to the region, calling on all stakeholders, including local officials and citizens, to ensure the welfare of Halabja's residents and the families of all martyrs and survivors.

Addressing the issue of compensation for victims of the former Ba'ath regime, Prime Minister Barzani stressed the federal government's responsibility to acknowledge and redress the suffering of Halabja and other Kurdish regions affected by past atrocities.

In concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister urged the federal government to expedite the process of converting Halabja into a province, emphasizing that the region's sacrifices should not be exploited for political gain.

The visit underscored the Kurdistan Regional Government's commitment to addressing the needs of Halabja and promoting its development, promising a brighter future for the province and its residents.