NATO Chief Mark Rutte Highlights Positive Meeting with Kurdistan Region President
While he refrained from disclosing specific details of their discussions, he described the meeting as "cordial" and focused on "re-establishing our relationship."
ERBIL (Kurdsitan24) – NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Wednesday described his meeting with Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani at the Munich Security Conference 2025 as "positive" and an opportunity to reinforce ties between the two sides.
Speaking at a press conference, Rutte responded to a question from a Kurdistan24 reporter regarding his discussions with Barzani, emphasizing the significance of their previous interactions in maintaining a strong relationship.
"It was a positive meeting. We know each other very well; previous interactions are important, I think, to continue that conversation. I was very happy to have that opportunity in Munich," Rutte stated. While he refrained from disclosing specific details of their discussions, he described the meeting as "cordial" and focused on "re-establishing our relationship."
On the topic of Iraq’s security, Rutte reiterated NATO’s commitment to assisting the country in strengthening its security forces, noting that the alliance operates at the invitation of the Iraqi government. He also acknowledged that potential changes in the broader security landscape—such as a possible reduction of US troop levels—could have implications for NATO’s mission in the country.
The Munich Security Conference, an annual gathering of world leaders and defense officials, serves as a key platform for discussions on global security challenges and international cooperation.
