Erbil, Kurdistan Region – In an exclusive interview with Al-Arabiya, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, Masrour Barzani, addressed critical regional developments, including mediation efforts between Turkey and the Kurds in Rojava, Kurdish unity, and the broader political landscape in Syria. He also provided insight into his recent meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Shibani and shared his perspective on the Kurdish cause in the region.

Erbil’s Role in Mediating Turkey-Kurd Relations

Prime Minister Barzani highlighted the Kurdistan Region’s strategic interest in ensuring stability in Syria, given its geographical proximity and the significant Kurdish population across the border. He emphasized Erbil’s commitment to de-escalating tensions between Turkey and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), advocating for peaceful solutions.

“In our discussions with Turkish leaders, including President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, we had very frank and open conversations about the current situation. There was a mutual understanding that de-escalation is necessary, and that time should be given to allow for peaceful solutions,” Barzani stated.

He acknowledged Turkey’s security concerns regarding the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) presence in Syria and urged Syrian Kurds to distance themselves from the PKK to avoid jeopardizing the broader Kurdish population.

Kurdish Unity and Mazloum Abdi’s Visit to Erbil

Barzani confirmed that Mazloum Abdi, the General Commander of the SDF, recently visited Erbil, where he met with President Masoud Barzani. The discussions centered on strengthening Kurdish unity and presenting a unified front to address Syria’s future.

“A united Kurdish position would strengthen their influence in pursuing peaceful and sustainable solutions for Syria’s future,” Barzani emphasized. He also advised Kurdish leaders in Rojava to develop a structured mechanism for engagement with Damascus to safeguard Kurdish rights within a broader Syrian framework.

Meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Shibani

Regarding his recent closed-door meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Shibani in Davos, Barzani clarified that discussions focused on achieving a peaceful resolution to the Syrian crisis.

“There were no secrets in our meeting. We spoke about the need for stability and a political transition that ensures the rights of all Syrians—Kurds, Alawites, Druze, and others. It is not our role to dictate what the Kurds in Syria should do; rather, they must determine their own future in a way that is sustainable and beneficial for Syria as a whole,” he explained.

Kurdistan Region’s Perspective on the SDF and Damascus

Barzani stated that while the SDF plays an important role, it does not represent the entire Kurdish population in Syria. He urged Damascus to engage with all Kurdish political factions to ensure a more inclusive process.

“There are multiple Kurdish political factions in Syria, and it is important that all are included in discussions about Syria’s future,” he noted. He encouraged the SDF to collaborate with other Kurdish groups to ensure broader representation in negotiations.

The Future of the Kurdish Cause and Regional Relations

When asked about the long-standing aspiration for an independent Kurdish state, Barzani suggested that the treatment of Kurds in the countries they reside in will ultimately shape their political future.

“If equality, justice, and respect are extended to the Kurds, societies can progress together. However, if Kurds continue to face injustice and oppression, their reactions will reflect that reality,” he asserted.

Final Messages to Regional Leaders

Barzani concluded the interview with direct messages to key figures in the region:

• To Syrian leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa: “He must be a president for all Syrians and respect all communities.”
• To Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani: “He must govern for all Iraqis and continue his positive relations with the Kurdistan Region.”
• To Mazloum Abdi: “He should work toward Kurdish unity in Syria.”
• To Abdullah Ocalan: “I hope he will one day be released and that a peaceful solution for Kurds in Turkey is reached.”

Kurdistan’s Commitment to Regional Stability

Barzani’s statements reaffirm the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to diplomacy, peace, and Kurdish unity. As Syria navigates a transitional period, Erbil’s role in fostering dialogue and stability remains crucial in shaping the region’s political landscape.