France-Kurdistan Economic Forum marks 'historic' step towards strategic economic partnership
"This is the signal, that we want to elevate our strategic partnership with Kurdistan, which is a very historic and political partnership, to the level of economic strategic partnership," Pouille affirmed.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The inaugural France-Kurdistan Economic Forum held in Paris on Monday marks a "historic" moment in the relationship between France and the Kurdistan Region, according to Ludovic Pouille, Director for Economic Diplomacy of France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Speaking to Kurdistan24 correspondent Barzan Hassan, Pouille emphasized the significance of the forum, stating, "It is a historic day in Paris because for the first time in our history, we have an economic forum between France and Kurdistan."
He noted the strong presence of both institutional representatives and businesses from the Kurdistan Region, highlighting the participation of three ministers, representatives of the chamber of commerce, and the French Consul General in Erbil.
Ludovic Pouille, Director for Economic Diplomacy of France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs speaking to Kurdistan24's Barzan Hassan during the France-Kurdistan Economic Forum, in Paris, France.
— Kurdistan 24 English (@K24English) September 23, 2024
📽️Kurdistan24 pic.twitter.com/5ADR9f9BAC
Pouille underscored France's commitment to strengthening its ties with Kurdistan. "This is the signal, that we want to elevate our strategic partnership with Kurdistan, which is a very historic and political partnership, to the level of economic strategic partnership," he affirmed.
He expressed his satisfaction with the participation of numerous French companies, including established investors like Carrefour, Danone, Lafarge, and Total Energies, as well as newcomers exploring opportunities in the Kurdistan Region.
Pouille concluded by stating that the primary goal of the forum is to encourage further French investment in Kurdistan and foster partnerships with Kurdish businesses.
The forum, a joint effort between the Kurdistan Regional Government's Investment Board and the French Economic Movement (MEDEF REUNION), demonstrates the growing economic cooperation between the two regions and paves the way for a more prosperous future.
Further reporting was done by Kurdistan24 correspondent Barzan Hassan.