Erbil, Kurdistan Region – Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani met with Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov in Erbil on Thursday to discuss a wide range of issues, including strengthening bilateral relations and expanding Russian investment in the Region.

According to a statement from Barzani’s office, the two officials addressed Erbil-Baghdad relations, regional stability, and the latest developments in the Middle East, particularly in Syria. Barzani reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to deepening ties with Moscow and acknowledged the contributions of Russian companies, especially in the energy sector. He also expressed gratitude for Russia’s support during difficult times.

Iraq and the Kurdistan Region have maintained long-standing economic relations with Russia, dating back to 1944. Major Russian oil and gas companies—including Lukoil, Gazprom Neft, and Rosneft—are actively operating in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, highlighting Russia’s significant role in the country’s energy sector.

The Kurdish presidency further noted that Barzani and Bogdanov emphasized the importance of stability in Iraq and the need for resolving outstanding disputes between Erbil and Baghdad. They also discussed the results of the Kurdistan parliamentary elections held last October after months of delay. Ongoing negotiations among political parties aim to form a new cabinet, though no final agreement has been reached.

On Syria, the two officials voiced their support for peace and stability, stressing “the need to protect the rights of Kurds and all communities” in the country. They also discussed the persistent threat posed by ISIS in Iraq and Syria, underscoring the importance of preventing its resurgence. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have been instrumental in combating ISIS in Syria, while security concerns remain high due to instability in the region.

Russia has been a key geopolitical player in the Middle East, particularly through its support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Moscow’s influence in the region has been strengthened through its military and diplomatic interventions. However, the ongoing war in Ukraine has placed additional strain on Russia’s military and economic resources, reportedly weakening the Assad regime’s position.

The meeting between Barzani and Bogdanov reflects ongoing efforts to maintain diplomatic engagement and economic cooperation between Russia and the Kurdistan Region amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.