Erbil, Kurdistan Region, April 22, 2024

Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his delegation arrived in the Kurdistan Region on Monday evening. They were warmly welcomed at Erbil International Airport by Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani, and several ministers and senior officials of the Kurdistan Region.

During their meeting, President Erdoğan’s visit to Baghdad and his meetings with senior Iraqi officials were discussed. The focus was on Türkiye’s relations with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, particularly in the economic and trade sectors. Security measures were also a topic of discussion.

President Nechirvan Barzani expressed the Kurdistan Region’s strong desire to enhance relations with Türkiye in all areas. He emphasized that the Kurdistan Region has always been a source of peace and stability in the region. Additionally, he thanked Türkiye for its support during challenging times.

Prime Minister Masrour Barzani also reiterated the Kurdistan Regional Government’s commitment to strengthening relations and promoting economic and trade cooperation with Türkiye. He highlighted the job and investment opportunities available for Turkish companies across various sectors. Furthermore, he expressed gratitude for Türkiye’s continued support and their dedication to implementing projects despite economic difficulties.

President Erdoğan reaffirmed his country’s unwavering support for Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. He expressed Türkiye’s readiness to cooperate and further expand relations in all fields. President Erdoğan also emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, stability, and resolving regional issues while ensuring the rights of all communities.

The discussions also covered the latest developments in the wider region, border security, the fight against terrorism, and other matters of mutual interest.