Politics

Diplomacy in Action: President Nechirvan Barzani Expands Kurdistan’s Global Influence at MSC 2025

Erbil has strengthened security and defense ties with NATO, the US, and Europe, earning recognition as a key ally in Middle East stability.

Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani shaking hands with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, in Munich, Germany, Feb. 15, 2025. (Photo: Kurdistan Region Presidency)
Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani shaking hands with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, in Munich, Germany, Feb. 15, 2025. (Photo: Kurdistan Region Presidency)
Kurdistan US - Kurdistan Regions Relations Kurdistan Region President, Nechirvan Barzani EU NATO Mission Iraq

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani held a series of strategic discussions with world leaders at the Munich Security Conference 2025, reinforcing the Kurdistan Region’s strategic partnerships and expanding cooperation in security, economic, and diplomatic fields.

Deepening NATO Collaboration

President Barzani met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to discuss regional security challenges, particularly the ongoing threat of ISIS. The discussions focused on strengthening NATO’s support for Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, especially in counterterrorism efforts and the training of Peshmerga forces. President Barzani expressed gratitude for NATO’s role in enhancing the Kurdistan Region’s defense capabilities, while Secretary Rutte reaffirmed NATO’s long-term commitment to supporting stability in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

“It was a pleasure to meet my friend, Mark Rutte again, now as NATO Secretary General. We discussed strengthening Iraq-NATO cooperation, security developments in the region, the ongoing threat of ISIS, and the importance of continued cooperation to address regional security challenges,” President Nechirvan Barzani wrote on his personal X account.

Expanding Relations with the Netherlands

In a meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, both sides explored ways to enhance bilateral relations across multiple sectors. President Barzani acknowledged the Netherlands’ significant contributions to the International Coalition against terrorism and emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration. Prime Minister Schoof, in turn, expressed his country’s commitment to expanding economic and security cooperation with the Kurdistan Region.

“I had a good meeting with Prime Minister Dick Schoof of the Netherlands today in Munich. We explored ways to further strengthen our relationship and enhance collaboration on issues of common interest,” President Nechirvan Barzani wrote on his personal X account.

Boosting Economic Ties with Bulgaria

President Barzani also met with Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, with discussions centering on strengthening economic and security cooperation. Both leaders recognized the Kurdistan Region’s pivotal role in regional stability, and President Radev emphasized Bulgaria’s interest in deepening trade and diplomatic ties with both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

“I am pleased to meet with the President of the Republic of Bulgaria Rumen Radev. We discussed shared priorities and ways to strengthen KRI and Iraq’s ties with Bulgaria,” President Nechirvan Barzani wrote on his personal X account.

Strengthening US-Kurdistan Relations

A key meeting took place between President Barzani and Senator Elissa Slotkin, a member of the US Senate Committee on Armed Services. They discussed continued security and defense cooperation, as well as the importance of US support in training the Peshmerga forces. Senator Slotkin reiterated the United States’ commitment to the Kurdistan Region, highlighting its vital role in maintaining regional security. The discussions also covered developments in Iraq and Syria, with both parties agreeing on the need for sustained international efforts against terrorism.

Exploring New Avenues with Armenia

In a discussion with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, President Barzani explored opportunities for economic, cultural, and trade cooperation. They also deliberated on establishing direct flights between Erbil and Yerevan, signaling a step toward stronger regional connectivity. Prime Minister Pashinyan praised the Kurdistan Region as a model of stability and coexistence, reaffirming Armenia’s interest in deepening bilateral ties.

“It was a pleasure to meet with the Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Munich. We discussed strengthening our bilateral cooperation and issues of mutual interests,” President Nechirvan Barzani wrote on his personal X account.

A Strong Diplomatic and Security Legacy

The Kurdistan Region has long played a strategic role in regional security, counterterrorism, and economic development. Over the years, Erbil has strengthened its partnerships with NATO, the US, and European nations, particularly in security and defense cooperation against ISIS. The international community has recognized the Kurdistan Region as a key ally in stabilizing Iraq and the broader Middle East.

Under President Barzani’s leadership, the Kurdistan Region continues to build robust international relationships, ensuring that it remains a focal point for regional cooperation. The meetings at the Munich Security Conference reaffirm Erbil’s diplomatic outreach and commitment to fostering security, economic growth, and political stability in Iraq and beyond.

Read More: President Nechirvan Barzani and US Secretary of State Rubio Discuss Strategic Partnership at MSC