U.S. Diplomat: PM Barzani’s Visit to Washington Signals Strategic Commitment to Kurdistan Region

By Ahora Qadi

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Former U.S. Ambassador and Atlantic Council fellow Gina Abercrombie-Winstanley affirmed that Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani’s visit to Washington marks a highly significant moment in bilateral relations, with far-reaching implications for economic, security, and diplomatic cooperation between Erbil and Washington.

Speaking to Kurdistan24, Abercrombie-Winstanley welcomed the visit and described the timing as pivotal, especially in the context of recent policy shifts under President Donald Trump’s administration.

“I think everyone can take confidence that the invitation was issued—that there are administration officials as well as private sector ready to meet and engage with the leadership of the Kurdistan Region.”she said.

A Strategic Agreement with Long-Term Impact

Highlighting the significance of the multi-billion-dollar energy agreement signed during the visit, Abercrombie-Winstanley noted its strategic value for both sides.

“The signing of this economic agreement is one that could prove to be extremely impactful in the way that people are counting on the agreement with Ukraine for rare earth mineral exploration to tie the two countries together. This deal—with over a hundred billion dollars over the lifetime of the agreement—is one that is deeply significant.”

She underscored the enduring partnership between the United States and the Kurdistan Region, while also acknowledging fluctuations in past administrations.

“We have had a long, if not completely steady, but long and positive relationship not only with Kurdistan, but of course Kurdistan is part of Iraq overall, and the United States has valued the partnership.”

Stability, Peshmerga Partnership, and Regional Role

Abercrombie-Winstanley praised the role of the Kurdish Peshmerga in the fight against ISIS, describing the Peshmerga partnership as essential to U.S. regional policy.

“The role of the Peshmerga forces and Kurdish forces at large was very important, and the United States very much appreciated that partnership—appreciated and admired the ability to protect and push back ISIS forces.”

She stressed that while the U.S. remains committed to supporting regional security, the Trump administration seeks to reduce military deployments abroad.

“There is a long-term desire from the United States to regularize the relationship with Iraq, to bring the military home as best as possible—President Trump has made that clear.”

U.S. Consulate in Erbil: A Symbol of Strategic Trust

Referring to the new U.S. consulate complex in Erbil, she emphasized its symbolism as a marker of Washington’s confidence in Kurdistan.

“Opening this large diplomatic establishment is a clear, clear signal of the status of the relationship... the value that has been placed on it for the economic investment it takes to open up a U.S. diplomatic building—and let me tell you, it costs a great deal.”

Support for a Unified Iraq with Strong Kurdish Role

Abercrombie-Winstanley made clear that while the agreement was signed directly with the Kurdistan Region, U.S. policy remains committed to Iraqi unity.

“Signing, having overseen the signing of a deal that is specifically in the Kurdistan Region as opposed to in Baghdad itself does send a signal. But the reality is that the United States is a strong supporter of the unity of Iraq... especially of course Kurds.”

Economic Potential and U.S. Confidence

She noted that the economic promise of the agreement reflects both Kurdistan’s assets and Washington’s trust in Erbil as a reliable partner.

“This deal with regard to gas and oil exploration is very important. It’s long-term, it’s with U.S. companies, and that does signal... the weight and importance that the United States gives to the region.”

Comparing Kurdistan’s economic role to that of powerful U.S. states, she added:

“Any region that has a strong economy that has assets… this is something that clearly can benefit Iraq in general and Kurdistan specifically.”

Clear Signals to Investors and Decision-Makers

Summarizing the visit’s significance, Abercrombie-Winstanley affirmed:

“The deal that’s being signed this weekend shows very clearly the potential... The United States is very interested in supporting and continuing this kind of partnership.”

“The partnership with Kurdish forces is one that has been held in high esteem... there will be many advocating for the continued strength of this partnership.”

“That is a strong signal of the long and healthy relationship to come.”