PM Masrour Barzani highlights balanced diplomacy, economic diversification, women’s rights at MEPS24
PM Barzani underscored Kurdistan’s commitment to maintaining constructive relationships with neighboring and global powers. “Iran is an important neighbor of Iraq, and it’s normal for Iraq to have good relations with Iran,” he stated.
Nov. 23, 2024
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani emphasized the importance of balanced international relations, economic diversification, and social progress during his address at the Middle East Peace and Security Forum (MEPS24).
Prime Minister Barzani underscored Kurdistan’s commitment to maintaining constructive relationships with neighboring and global powers. “Iran is an important neighbor of Iraq, and it’s normal for Iraq to have good relations with Iran,” he stated.
He also highlighted ties with other key players, saying, “We have normal relations with Russia, good relations with Turkey, and we’re not under pressure to avoid investments from Chinese companies.”
While affirming Kurdistan’s strong ties with the U.S. and Western nations, PM Barzani stressed the region’s open approach to diplomacy.
“We have good relations with the U.S. and other Western countries, but that doesn’t mean we don’t want to have good relations with China or any other country,” he said.
He urged all actors to reassess their strategies to foster stronger relations with global powers.
Economic Diversification a Priority
Barzani reiterated his government’s focus on diversifying the Kurdistan Region’s economy, highlighting agriculture and tourism as key sectors.
“In Kurdistan, we try to diversify our economy through investing in agriculture, tourism, and other areas,” he explained.
He also pointed to legislative advancements, including a new law to secure retirement benefits in the private sector, as steps toward economic reform.
Advocating for Women’s Rights
Promoting social equity and women’s empowerment were central to Barzani’s address.
“We’re trying to give equal opportunities to women,” he stated, noting that the region’s culture provides women with significant freedoms.
However, he acknowledged ongoing challenges such as illiteracy that hinder women’s rights. “There are factors that affect the rights of women, like illiteracy,” he said, emphasizing the need to protect everyone’s rights and foster trust and equality.
The Role of the U.S.
Barzani reaffirmed the U.S. as a trusted partner for the Kurdistan Region.
“The U.S. is still a partner that we trust,” he declared, advocating for sustained collaboration to address regional challenges. “Lack of trust and equality are the sources of many problems we face,” he added, urging for greater efforts to build mutual understanding and respect.
PM Barzani’s remarks reflected the Kurdistan Region’s vision of balanced diplomacy, economic resilience, and a commitment to social progress, positioning the region as a vital player in fostering peace and stability in the Middle East.