French-Kurdish Economic Forum paves way for booming business ties

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The inaugural French-Kurdistan Economic Forum is set to convene in Paris on Monday, marking a significant step in fostering economic collaboration between the Kurdistan Region and France.

The forum is a joint effort between the Kurdistan Regional Government's Investment Board and the French Economic Movement (Le Mouvement des Entreprises de France Réunion - MEDEF REUNION).

France: "A Trustworthy and Friendly Relationship with the Kurdistan Region"

In a video message, French Consul General in Erbil, Yann Braem, emphasized the significance of the conference, stating his belief that it will forge direct economic connections between companies in both regions.

"French companies can capitalize on the investment prospects present in the Kurdistan Region through this forum," Braem said. "We share a trustworthy and friendly relationship with the Kurdistan Region, one that is both crucial and multifaceted. We aim to further enrich our economic ties, which will undoubtedly positively impact the overall relationship between France and the Kurdistan Region."

French Companies: "Among the Most Advanced in the World"

Braem highlighted the prowess of French companies, particularly in construction and infrastructure, asserting that they are "among the most advanced in the world." He further noted France's internationalized economy and its active presence globally through leading companies.

"France possesses exceptional expertise in smart cities and environmentally conscious long-term development," Braem added. "These are the attributes and qualities we intend to showcase to companies in the Kurdistan Region during the forum."

Addressing potential investors, the Consul General urged them to "transform our projects into reality. Let this unique global relationship be mirrored in the economic sphere."

Investment Board: "We Want to Increase French Investment in the Kurdistan Region"

Bargasht Akrayi, the spokesperson for the Kurdistan Regional Government's Investment Board, revealed that approximately 60 investors from various sectors in the Kurdistan Region, alongside numerous French investors, will participate in the Paris Conference.

"The conference aims to strengthen and expand economic relations between the Kurdistan Region and France," Akrayi explained. "Politically and diplomatically, Paris and Erbil enjoy excellent relations, and we want this outstanding rapport to be reflected in the economic domain."

Akrayi further stated, "Through this forum, we intend to encourage French investors to come to the Kurdistan Region and invest in diverse sectors. To facilitate this, the Kurdistan Regional Government's Investment Board will provide them with all necessary support."

He concluded by emphasizing the conference's potential to promote the Kurdistan Region's local products in France, stating, "We want to leverage this conference as an opportunity to market the Kurdistan Region's local products in France."

Further reporting was done by Kurdistan24's correspondent Mateen Kareem Khan