PM Barzani Speaks with US National Security Adviser-Designate, Mike Waltz—Long-time Friend of the Kurds

Dec 22, 2024

WASHINGTON DC, United States (Kurdistan 24) Kurdish Prime Minister Masrour Barzani spoke by phone on Saturday with Rep. Mike Waltz (R, Florida), whom President-elect Donald Trump has named as his National Security Adviser. Trump and his White House staff will take office in less than a month—on Jan. 20, 2025.

Waltz is a retired U.S. Special Forces officer and the first Green Beret to be elected to Congress, as his website explains.

Waltz is a member of the Congressional Kurdish Caucus and has long been a strong supporter of the Kurds.

Read More: Mike Waltz, Good Friend of the Kurds, Named as Trump’s National Security Advisor

As one might expect, Waltz’s friendly attitude toward the Kurds was reflected in the discussion between him and Barzani.

Partnership between the U.S.-and Kurdistan Region

Their discussion “underscored the Kurdistan Region’s critical role as a reliable partner in the region, committed to shared values and goals of peace and security,” according to a read-out from Barzani’s office.

“Both leaders emphasized the importance of collective efforts to address evolving challenges and ensure lasting stability,” it added.

During their conversation,, Barzani “congratulated Waltz on his new role, commending his deep understanding of security and regional dynamics,” it stated. They also discussed the “recent elections in both the Kurdistan Region and the United States, emphasizing the significance of these democratic milestones in shaping the future of governance and international cooperation.”

Their discussion “focused on regional developments and ways to enhance regional stability and bilateral relations,” it explained, while it concluded, “Prime Minister Barzani and Congressman Waltz reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the strong partnership between the Kurdistan Region and the United States.”