From Ankara to Davos: Strategic Engagements Position Kurdistan at the Forefront of International Discussions

At Davos, Barzani's participation was not merely ceremonial but a strategic endeavor to articulate and advance the interests of the Kurdistan Region amidst a complex geopolitical landscape.

Al-Arab newspaper's article about KRG PM Masrour Barzani, Jan. 25, 2025. (Graphic: Designed by Kurdistan24)
Al-Arab newspaper's article about KRG PM Masrour Barzani, Jan. 25, 2025. (Graphic: Designed by Kurdistan24)

Jan. 25, 2025

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – From Ankara to Davos; Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani’s strategic engagements position Kurdistan at the forefront of international discussions, Al-Arab newspaper reported on Saturday. 

As reported by Al-Arab newspaper, Prime Minister Barzani, has recently completed a series of influential meetings spanning several key global cities—from Ankara to Abu Dhabi, and from Amman to Davos. This diplomatic marathon underscores the Kurdistan Region's growing prominence on the international stage and its leadership's adept handling of complex regional and global dialogues.

Barzani's journey began in Ankara, where discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan set a collaborative tone. The tour continued in Abu Dhabi, with significant talks with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In Jordan, PM Barzani met with King Abdullah II, before capping off his diplomatic spree at the prestigious World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.

At Davos, Barzani's participation was not merely ceremonial but a strategic endeavor to articulate and advance the interests of the Kurdistan Region amidst a complex geopolitical landscape. His interactions included meetings with global leaders such as Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations; Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister of Foreign Affairs of France; and Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, among others.

Barzani's dialogue with these figures was crucial, particularly in light of ongoing tensions and negotiations with the federal government of Iraq. These discussions often revolved around the sensitive issues of budget allocations and the rights to oil revenues—a contentious topic given the recent halt in oil exports from Kurdistan via the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline.

During his time in Davos, as highlighted by Al-Arab, PM Barzani effectively conveyed the challenges faced by the Kurdistan Region, stemming from economic and political pressures exerted by various Iraqi political forces. These forces have often used financial and economic levers as means of political maneuvering, complicating the already delicate relationship between Erbil and Baghdad.

The culmination of this tour was marked by Barzani's advocacy for the rights and constitutional entitlements of the Kurdistan Region. His meetings underscored the need for a respectful and equitable dialogue between Erbil and Baghdad, especially in resolving the longstanding issues over budgetary allocations and oil revenue sharing.

Barzani's assertive diplomacy signifies a pivotal moment for the Kurdistan Region, as it seeks to fortify its international relationships and assert its position as a key player in regional stability and economic development. His efforts at forums like Davos are vital in ensuring that Kurdistan's voice is not only heard but also respected on the global stage.

This series of engagements highlights the strategic importance of the Kurdistan Region in the Middle East and its potential role as a stabilizing force amidst regional complexities. As Kurdistan continues to navigate its path through these challenging dynamics, the leadership of figures like PM Masrour Barzani remains critical in advocating for the region's rights and in striving towards a prosperous future, Al-Arab newspaper concluded.