Kurdish Leader Masoud Barzani Meets Outgoing Dutch Ambassador Hans Sandee
In a significant diplomatic encounter, Masoud Barzani, the influential Kurdish leader and president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), held discussions with Dutch Ambassador to Iraq, Hans Sandee, on Monday. The meeting, held at Barzani Headquarters, focused on bolstering bilateral relations between the Kurdistan Region and the Netherlands.
Ambassador Sandee expressed profound appreciation for the robust ties between the Kurdistan Region and the Netherlands, underscoring cooperative efforts in economic development, agriculture, and investment. Particularly noteworthy was the Netherlands' steadfast support for the Kurdistan Peshmerga forces in their pivotal role within the International Coalition against the Islamic State (IS), as stated by sources from Barzani Headquarters.
In response, Barzani conveyed gratitude to Ambassador Sandee for his dedicated efforts and conveyed best wishes for his future endeavors. Highlighting the enduring friendship between the Kurdish people and the Netherlands, Barzani acknowledged the unwavering support extended by the Dutch government and its people during critical junctures, including the shelter provided to Kurdish refugees. He also commended the Netherlands' pivotal role in assisting Peshmerga forces during the intense battles against IS, as well as in spearheading reforms within the Peshmerga Ministry.
The discussions further delved into the political and security landscape of the region, encompassing the dynamics between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the federal government of Iraq. Additionally, the upcoming parliamentary elections in Kurdistan were a focal point of the deliberations, indicating the broad scope of the dialogue.
