PM Barzani, Dutch CG Discuss Bolstering Bilateral Ties
Emphasizing the region’s strategic importance, IJsselstein outlined a forward-looking agenda focused on reinforcing economic ties, expanding trade exchanges, and advancing key agricultural projects.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a bid to deepen international ties and stimulate regional development, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani welcomed Adriaan IJsselstein, the newly appointed Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the Kurdistan Region, during a meeting on Saturday.
The meeting, held in Erbil, underscored the Kurdistan Regional Government’s commitment to enhancing diplomatic and economic cooperation with the Netherlands.
During the session, Prime Minister Barzani congratulated IJsselstein on his new role and reiterated his government’s full support for initiatives that would further bolster bilateral relations.
Emphasizing the region’s strategic importance, IJsselstein outlined a forward-looking agenda focused on reinforcing economic ties, expanding trade exchanges, and advancing key agricultural projects.
In a recent interview with Kurdistan24 English, IJsselstein highlighted the Kurdistan Region’s unique position as a linchpin for regional connectivity and stability.
Read More: Kurdistan Region: A Strategic Partner in a Changing Middle East
He noted that the region not only offers a gateway to broader Middle Eastern markets but also plays a pivotal role in fostering stability and economic growth.
“Political stability—both within the Kurdistan Region and in its relations with Baghdad—is crucial for our mutual success,” he stressed, adding that this stability is essential for attracting Dutch investment and expanding collaborative projects.
IJsselstein further elaborated on the diverse and robust relationship between the Netherlands and the Kurdistan Regional Government. Citing recent high-level engagements—including meetings between Prime Minister Barzani and Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, as well as a visit from the Dutch Minister of Defense—the Consul General affirmed that these interactions are laying the groundwork for enduring economic and people-to-people connections.
He underscored that strong ties, exemplified by ongoing business and cultural exchanges, are fundamental to the long-term success of bilateral cooperation.
A key area of focus is agriculture, where the Netherlands has already made significant inroads.
IJsselstein pointed to the nation’s investments in developing the potato sub-sector, which have not only modernized farming practices but also created hundreds of jobs and increased revenues for local farmers.
Looking ahead, he expressed optimism about replicating this model in other sectors such as dairy, poultry, and vegetable production, emphasizing that public-private partnerships will be vital to unlocking further economic potential.
Trade is another cornerstone of the burgeoning relationship.
With the Kurdistan Region serving as a critical conduit for Dutch-Iraqi commerce—evidenced by the impressive trade figures recorded in 2023—the Consul General outlined strategies to raise awareness among Dutch investors and facilitate business-to-business engagements.
Regular trade missions and annual business gatherings are set to play a central role in expanding these ties in the coming year.
This landmark visit and the comprehensive vision shared by Consul General IJsselstein signal a promising new chapter in Dutch-Kurdish relations, with both sides committed to leveraging their strategic strengths for mutual prosperity and regional stability.
