Erbil, Kurdistan Region – On Monday, June 10, 2024, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani welcomed the new Turkish Consul General to the region, Erman Topcu, in a meeting focused on enhancing bilateral relations and discussing strategic projects.

Prime Minister Barzani congratulated Consul General Topcu on his new appointment, underscoring the importance of reinforcing ties between the Kurdistan Region and Turkey based on shared interests.

During the meeting, Barzani highlighted the significance of the Development Road Project, which aims to link Iraq, Turkey, and Europe through a comprehensive railway network. He emphasized the necessity for the Kurdistan Region and all Iraqi communities to be involved in this strategic initiative.

Consul General Topcu expressed his enthusiasm for his new role and affirmed Turkey's dedication to deepening relations with the Kurdistan Region across various sectors.

The discussions also covered the ongoing disputes between the Kurdistan Regional Government and the federal government of Iraq. Both parties stressed the importance of resolving these issues and addressed the efforts needed to resume oil exports from the Kurdistan Region.