PM Barzani Welcomes UK-EU Delegation, Spotlights Kurdistan’s Reform Path
The delegation reaffirmed the strong and enduring ties between the Kurdistan Region and both the UK and the EU. They expressed their countries' continued support for deepening bilateral relations and strengthening diplomatic, economic, and institutional partnerships.
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — In a meeting that underscored growing international recognition of the Kurdistan Region's achievements and aspirations, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Monday welcomed a high-ranking joint delegation from the United Kingdom Parliament, the British House of Lords, and the European Parliament in Erbil.
The visit took place on April 14, a date marked across the Kurdistan Region as a solemn day of remembrance for the victims of the Anfal genocide. Against that backdrop, the meeting offered a potent symbol of how far the Kurdistan Region has come—from a history of persecution to a beacon of democracy and stability in the Middle East.
The visiting delegation praised the Kurdistan Region’s progress and prosperity, highlighting Erbil as a standout example of growth, freedom, and peaceful coexistence among its diverse religious and ethnic communities. They commended the heroic role of the Peshmerga forces in confronting terrorism and safeguarding regional stability, describing Kurdistan as a vital partner in the global fight against extremism.
The delegation also reaffirmed the strong and enduring ties between the Kurdistan Region and both the United Kingdom and the European Union. They expressed their countries' continued support for deepening bilateral relations and strengthening diplomatic, economic, and institutional partnerships.
Prime Minister Barzani warmly welcomed the expressions of support and extended his appreciation to the UK and European countries for their long-standing backing of the Kurdish people. He emphasized the Kurdistan Regional Government’s unwavering commitment to democratic governance, economic modernization, and institutional reform.
He highlighted recent achievements in key areas, including the energy sector, banking reform, and the digitization of public services—core pillars of the KRG's ongoing reform agenda aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency, and service delivery.
PM Barzani also noted that the KRG’s vision is grounded in its desire to provide better governance and economic resilience while continuing to serve as a constructive actor within Iraq and the broader region.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to exchange views on the broader political landscape in Iraq and the Middle East. Discussions included the challenges facing federal-regional relations, efforts to promote peace and stability, and the potential for deeper cooperation between the Kurdistan Region and European allies.
The visit by the UK and EU delegation follows a similar meeting earlier in the day between the group and President Masoud Barzani, further signaling robust and coordinated international interest in the Kurdistan Region’s role as a partner for peace, security, and reform in a turbulent region.
As the Kurdistan Region looks to the future, Monday’s diplomatic engagement served not only as a reaffirmation of shared values and mutual support but also as a powerful reminder that Erbil’s story of resilience, reform, and coexistence continues to inspire friends and allies across the world.
