Erbil, Kurdistan Region – The Iranian Ambassador to Iraq, Mohammad Kazem Al-Sadeq, has expressed his gratitude to Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani for the exceptional hospitality and services provided to Iranian pilgrims during the Arbaeen pilgrimage. These pilgrims entered Iraq through the Kurdistan Region's border crossings on their way to Karbala.

In a statement issued by the Iranian ambassador's office, it was revealed that Ambassador Al-Sadeq made a phone call to Prime Minister Barzani to personally thank the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and its people for their warm reception and support for the Iranian pilgrims participating in the Arbaeen ceremonies.

"The Iranian pilgrims have expressed their satisfaction with their stay in the Kurdistan Region, appreciating the services and assistance provided to them," the ambassador said during the call.

In response, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani emphasized the importance of the occasion, stating, "We consider serving the pilgrims of Imam Hussein a sacred duty, and we hope to provide even more services in the coming years."

Earlier, Iran's Consul in Erbil, Nasrollah Rashnoudi, also extended his heartfelt thanks to the KRG for its efforts in accommodating the Arbaeen pilgrims. During a press conference held in Erbil, alongside Governor Omed Khoshnaw, Rashnoudi praised the Barzani Charity Foundation, the police, the Asayish, and the traffic police for creating a safe and welcoming environment for the pilgrims.

"I would like to thank the Barzani Charity Foundation, the police, the Asayish, and the traffic police of the Kurdistan Region for ensuring a suitable environment for the Arbaeen pilgrims coming from Iranian cities," Rashnoudi said.

He also conveyed his appreciation to President Barzani, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani, and Prime Minister Masrour Barzani for their directives to provide all necessary facilities and services to the pilgrims.

Each year, large numbers of pilgrims from Iranian cities travel to Karbala, Iraq, to participate in the Arbaeen commemoration of Imam Hussein, with many passing through the Kurdistan Region.

During the press conference, Governor Khoshnaw highlighted the success of the KRG's efforts, stating, "Although this experience is new for the Kurdistan Region, it was highly successful and praised by the Iranian Consul."

He added that both President Nechirvan Barzani and Prime Minister Masrour Barzani had instructed relevant authorities to ensure that all necessary preparations were in place to support the Arbaeen pilgrims.