Politics

KDP President Barzani attended Danielle Mitterrand's Centenary in Erbil Ceremony

The ceremony in Erbil represents the Kurdish people's enduring gratitude for her role in securing international recognition and protection during one of their most challenging periods.

KDP President Masoud Barzani (C), Kurdistan Region PM Masrour Barzani (L) and, France Ambassador to Iraq Patrick Durel (R). (Photo: Kurdistan24)
KDP President Masoud Barzani (C), Kurdistan Region PM Masrour Barzani (L) and, France Ambassador to Iraq Patrick Durel (R). (Photo: Kurdistan24)
Kurdistan KDP President Masoud Barzani PM Masrour Barzani Danielle Mitterrand Commemoration Centenary French Ambassador Patrick Durel

Nov. 12, 2024

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – On Tuesday, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP)President Masoud Barzani and Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani led a commemorative ceremony in Erbil, marking the centenary of Danielle Mitterrand's birth, the former French First Lady who played a crucial role in supporting the Kurdish people during their darkest hours.

In 1991, Mitterrand met with President Barzani and Kurdish refugees, witnessing firsthand the humanitarian crisis facing the Kurdish people during their mass exodus. "We have tried to make the Kurdish voice heard worldwide," she declared during her historic visit.

Her intervention proved pivotal as France subsequently called for a UN Security Council meeting, resulting in Resolution 688, which established a no-fly zone above the 36th parallel and created a safe haven for the Kurdish people.

Born on Oct. 29, 1924, in Verdun, eastern France, Mitterrand, wife of former French President François Mitterrand, passed away on Nov. 22, 2011, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering support for Kurdish rights and humanitarian causes.

Danielle Mitterrand's advocacy for the Kurdish people in 1991 marked a turning point in Kurdish history. Her humanitarian intervention and France's diplomatic efforts led to international protection for the Kurdish people, helping establish the foundation for today's Kurdistan Region.

The ceremony in Erbil represents the Kurdish people's enduring gratitude for her role in securing international recognition and protection during one of their most challenging periods.