2024 Diplomatic Review: PM Barzani's Strategic International Engagement Strengthens Regional Position

Dec. 31, 2024

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani conducted wide-ranging diplomatic activities throughout 2024, considerably improving the Kurdistan Region's international relations through strategic meetings with global leaders and hosting several high-level delegations.

These wide-ranging diplomatic engagements concentrated on reinforcing and enhancing political, economic, and security partnerships across multiple regions.

Strategic Regional Partnerships

In December, PM Barzani's visit to Bahrain for discussions with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa marked an important step in Gulf relations, concentrating on economic cooperation.

The year also saw significant developments in relations with Iran, including a noteworthy meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in September and discussions with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in June, stressing bilateral coordination.

International Diplomatic Initiatives

A prominent highlight was PM Barzani's February visit to the United States, where he engaged in high-level meetings with key administration officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and Energy Envoy Amos Hochstein.

These discussions strengthened the Kurdistan Region's relationship with its crucial Western ally.

Regional Security and Political Cooperation

The Prime Minister's meeting with Turkish leadership, including hosting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in April and former Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu in November, proved the Kurdistan Region's role in regional stability.

His participation in the MEPS Forum in November provided a platform to address current Middle Eastern issues.

Federal Relations Development

Throughout the year, PM Barzani kept active engagement with Baghdad, emphasized by multiple meetings with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and other senior officials.

A noteworthy visit to Baghdad in May included discussions with key federal figures, focusing on resolving outstanding issues between the federal and regional governments.

Expanding Diplomatic Presence

The opening of Qatar's Consulate General in May signified another step in expanding the Kurdistan Region's diplomatic connections.

The Prime Minister's consistent meetings with UN representatives, including the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, strengthened the region's commitment to international cooperation.

These diplomatic activities reflect the Kurdistan Regional Government's strategic approach to consolidation of its international position while coping with regional challenges.

The diverse range of meetings reveals a balanced foreign policy approach, maintaining relationships with Western allies while strengthening regional partnerships and working to resolve issues with the federal government in Baghdad.