Erbil, Kurdistan Region, September 12, 2024

President Nechirvan Barzani took part in the celebration marking the 20th anniversary of the Zeytun Division from the Republic of Korea. This significant event was organized by the Korean Consulate General in the Kurdistan Region. The gathering saw the participation of various ministers, high-ranking officials from the Kurdistan Region, diplomats from the Republic of Korea, along with academic and military representatives from both sides. During the occasion, President Nechirvan Barzani addressed the attendees with a speech:

Distinguished guests,
Dear attendees,
Good evening
“Annyeonghaseyo”

We are pleased to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Republic of Korean Zaytun Division’s presence in the Kurdistan Region and the establishment of diplomatic ties between Erbil and Seoul. It is my honor to extend a warm welcome to Mr. Choi Sung-soo, the Ambassador of Republic of Korea to Iraq. This milestone and the relationship between Korea and the Kurdistan Region hold significant importance for us.

The relationship between Republic of Korea and Iraq has its origins in the late 1980s; however, two decades ago, there was no established connection between Kurdistan Region and Republic of Korea. At that time, both parties were unfamiliar with one another. The arrival of the first Republic of Korean military contingent, known as the Zaytun Division, in Erbil in September 2004 marked a significant milestone in the development of relations between the two nations.

Republic of Korean forces have actively participated in the international coalition aimed at the reconstruction of Iraq following its liberation. Their involvement in Iraq, particularly in the Kurdistan Region, transcended mere military or economic objectives; it was fundamentally a humanitarian and peace-oriented mission rooted in a profound commitment to assistance and collaboration.

They arrived in the Kurdistan Region as allies, representing the name (Zaytun,) symbolizing peace and prosperity. The people of Kurdistan Region continue to recall the message displayed on the buses they donated: We are your friends. Through this visit, they were introduced to a new community and culture within the Middle East, while the people of Kurdistan discovered numerous distinctive features of Republic of Korea.

While the Zaytun Division operated within a military framework, they extended humanitarian aid and support to the citizens of Kurdistan. This team also played a significant role in establishing the Korean Diplomatic Representation in the Kurdistan Region, which transitioned from a diplomatic office of the Korean Embassy to a consulate in 2016. Furthermore, despite its military origins, the Zaytun Hospital welcomed citizens and offered essential medical care.

They opened a library in Sami Abdulrahman Park and cooperated with many government ministries and institutions. The soldiers of the team established friendly relations with the people and introduced Korean culture and traditions to the people of Kurdistan. Several Korean stories and drama series were interpreted to Kurdish and became very popular among Kurdish audiences.

KOICA has made substantial contributions and remains committed to supporting the Kurdistan Region. It has been instrumental in the development of approximately 60 schools, 15 Zaytun medical centers, hospitals, and libraries. Additionally, KOICA has played a key role in the establishment of the Kurdistan Institute for Public Administration and the implementation of electronic purchasing systems. These initiatives, among many others, highlight the significant impact of Korean efforts in the Kurdistan Region.

This marked the inception of a relationship that has, thankfully, remained quite friendly over the years. Two decades later, the significant role, impact, and support of Korea in various sectors of the Kurdistan Region are evident. They have consistently been our steadfast and valued friends, and we are grateful for all their assistance and support.

My initial trip to Korea holds a special place in my heart. The warmth and hospitality we experienced upon our arrival at the airport in Seoul are memories that will stay with us forever.

As we commemorate the 20th anniversary of this significant milestone, the people of Kurdistan have become well-acquainted with Republic of Korea, its culture, and its impact. The numerous contributions and initiatives undertaken by Republic of Korea, including the Zeytun Division, KOICA Agency, and our Korean companies and partners, have fostered a robust friendship between our two regions.

The people of the Kurdistan Region take great pride in our relationship and are genuinely pleased with their development. We are eager to enhance these connections and foster collaboration across various sectors, grounded in our shared interests.

Dear friends,

Republic of Korea's remarkable journey of success serves as a fascinating and motivating example for the global community. The Kurdistan Region and Iraq have the opportunity to draw valuable insights from this experience. Despite facing the challenges of war, destruction, and an unstable economy, Korea, with the support of the international community, prioritized the revitalization of its population and infrastructure.

Through effective strategic planning, proactive initiatives, and a commitment to innovation, Korea has transformed from a state of desolation to the fourteenth largest economy in the world. It has emerged as a formidable force in technology, significantly contributing to global advancements in both technological and scientific fields.

In 1971, following the war, Republic of Korea made a significant and commendable decision by founding the Korean Development Institute (KDI). This institute played a crucial role in devising policies and strategies aimed at revitalizing, developing, and advancing the economy, as well as reconstructing the Korean society.

Over the years, the contributions of the institute significantly influenced Korea's economic development. We have the opportunity to adapt their successful strategies to align with the specific circumstances and requirements of the Kurdistan Region.

The commitment, dedication, and sense of belonging that Korean citizens feel towards their homeland, along with their faith, trust, and aspirations for a brighter future, play a significant role in the success of their nation. This strong foundation is largely a result of effective education and schooling.

The narrative of Korea serves as a powerful reminder to humanity that with a commitment to progress and a focus on nurturing individual talents, opportunities for growth are available to all peoples and nations. It is essential that no nation is overlooked, as the journey toward success and the attainment of ambitious goals lies ahead for every community.

We would like to take this opportunity to highlight our collaboration with Korea. The Kurdistan Region offers a conducive investment climate and numerous opportunities for the Korean private sector across various sectors.

The potential for enhancing the infrastructure of the Kurdistan Region is significant, particularly through collaboration in scientific, technological, cultural, and various other domains. Our partnership can expand to encompass a wider range of opportunities that would be mutually beneficial, and we are diligently pursuing this goal.

In summary, two decades later, I wish to extend my heartfelt appreciation to every member of the Zaytun Division from Erbil. My warm regards go out to all of them, particularly to General Huang, the Chief Commander of the Division, as well as to Mr. Park, Kim, Lin, and the rest of the officers. I convey to them: It has been a pleasure to know you, we hold you in our thoughts, and wherever you may be, we wish you enduring health, joy, and success.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Republic of Korean Consul in the Kurdistan Region and the dedicated consulate team for their efforts in organizing this ceremony. It is a pleasure to welcome you all once more.

I wish you all a nice evening.

Thank you so much

“Gamsahamnida..”