Erbil, Kurdistan Region - Prime Minister Masrour Barzani of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) reiterated the government's steadfast dedication to media freedom during his participation in the 3rd International Summit of Journalists held in Erbil. The summit, organized by the Kurdistan Union of Journalists in collaboration with the International Federation of Journalists, coincided with Kurdish Journalism Day and marked the anniversaries of significant milestones in Kurdish journalism.

Addressing attendees from around the globe, Prime Minister Barzani underscored the paramount importance of media freedom in the Kurdistan Region. He emphasized that media work in Kurdistan is entirely unrestricted, with the government committed to providing a conducive environment for journalism and freedom of expression within legal frameworks.

Highlighting the indispensable role of journalists in raising public awareness, identifying societal shortcomings, and supporting the reform process, Prime Minister Barzani praised the professionalism and responsibility exhibited by Kurdish journalists in carrying out their duties.

However, amidst the progress in media freedom, Prime Minister Barzani cautioned against adversaries aiming to exploit this liberty to undermine democratic principles and Kurdistan's structure. He urged journalists and media organizations to safeguard the integrity of the profession and prevent its misuse.

Responding to the summit's focus on protecting women journalists from gender discrimination, Prime Minister Barzani affirmed the KRG's readiness to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to address the challenges faced by women journalists. He pledged decisive action to eliminate obstacles hindering women journalists from fulfilling their professional duties.

The summit, hosted in Erbil, facilitated collaboration between the Gender Committee of the International Federation of Journalists and the Kurdistan Union of Journalists, fostering hopes of joint initiatives and projects to promote gender equality in journalism.

In his closing remarks, Prime Minister Barzani extended congratulations on Kurdish Journalism Day and the anniversary of the Kurdistan Union of Journalists, expressing well wishes for the success of all participants in their journalistic endeavors.

The speech delivered by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani reflects the Kurdistan Regional Government's unwavering commitment to upholding media freedom and fostering a conducive environment for journalism in the Kurdistan Region.