PM Masrour Barzani calls for greater U.S. engagement, peaceful solutions at MEPS24
“We do believe that peace is better than war. We hope there will be peaceful solutions to every ongoing conflict,” he stated, adding, “We don’t want Iraq to be dragged into that war in the region.”
Nov. 23, 2024
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani highlighted the importance of U.S.-Kurdistan relations and the need for peaceful conflict resolutions during a special session at MEPS24.
Addressing key regional and international challenges, PM Barzani emphasized that Kurdistan seeks continued cooperation with the United States, particularly in security and economic development.
“We hope the U.S. continues its relations with the Kurdistan Region,” he said, underlining the historical ties between the two.
PM Barzani reaffirmed his government's commitment to peace amid escalating tensions in the region.
“We do believe that peace is better than war. We hope there will be peaceful solutions to every ongoing conflict,” he stated, adding, “We don’t want Iraq to be dragged into that war in the region.”
Regarding U.S. military presence in Iraq, PM Barzani clarified that American troops operate based on Baghdad’s invitation.
“It is very normal for U.S. forces to stay in Iraq. Any unilateral decision is not going to be a good decision,” he remarked, recalling the vacuum created when U.S. troops withdrew in 2011. “We anticipated that U.S. troops would be back.”
The Prime Minister also warned of ongoing threats from ISIS.
“We think ISIS is still intact,” he cautioned, advocating for the continuation of coalition missions to ensure stability. However, he added that the end of such missions should not signal the termination of Iraq-U.S. relations.
On domestic matters, PM Barzani lamented the economic losses caused by the halt in Kurdistan’s oil exports. “Every month, we lose billions due to this halt,” he revealed, urging for a modern legal framework to address Iraq’s energy sector.
Diversifying the Kurdistan Region’s economy remains a key priority for his administration. “In Kurdistan, we try to diversify our economy through investing in agriculture, tourism, and other sectors,” he explained.
PM Barzani continued by advocating for greater U.S. engagement in the region, stating that such involvement would promote stability and prosperity. “Any step towards promoting peace should be supported,” he said.
The Prime Minister’s remarks at MEPS24 underscore the Kurdistan Region’s aspirations for peaceful coexistence, economic resilience, and enduring partnerships with the international community.
This is a developing report. Stay tuned for further updates.