PM Barzani Highlights Importance of U.S.-Kurdistan Ties Amid Efforts to Deepen Strategic Partnership
Barzani’s remarks come as he participates in high-level meetings in Washington, D.C., where he has been engaging with top U.S. officials and policymakers on strengthening ties between Erbil and Washington.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Thursday underscored the strategic importance of the United States as a long-standing partner of the Kurdistan Region, signaling continued efforts to expand bilateral cooperation in key sectors.
In a statement shared on the social platform X, Barzani wrote: “The U.S. remains a vital security and economic partner for the Kurdistan Region, and we are working to further deepen and strengthen that partnership.”
The U.S. remains a vital security and economic partner for the Kurdistan Region, and we are working to further deepen and strengthen that partnership. pic.twitter.com/iUT29wUvzB
— Masrour Barzani (@masrourbarzani) May 21, 2025
Barzani’s remarks come as he participates in high-level meetings in Washington, D.C., where he has been engaging with top U.S. officials and policymakers on strengthening ties between Erbil and Washington. The visit reflects ongoing cooperation between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the United States, particularly in areas of counterterrorism, energy development, economic reform, and regional stability.
A Strategic Relationship
The Kurdistan Region has long been considered a key U.S. partner in Iraq, notably in the fight against ISIS and efforts to promote stability in the wider Middle East. U.S. support has included military training and assistance for Peshmerga forces, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic backing for Kurdish aspirations within a unified Iraq.
Over the past two decades, Washington and Erbil have worked closely on security cooperation, reconstruction, and governance initiatives. Barzani’s latest comments appear aimed at reaffirming that commitment amid shifting regional dynamics and domestic political challenges within Iraq.
Strengthening Economic Ties
In recent years, the KRG has sought to diversify its economy and attract foreign investment, with the U.S. identified as a critical partner in these ambitions. Discussions during Barzani’s U.S. visit are expected to include potential American support for reforms, infrastructure projects, and energy sector development in the Kurdistan Region.
Barzani has previously emphasized the need to transition the KRG’s economy away from overreliance on oil revenues, calling for broader cooperation with international partners, including the U.S., to develop sectors like agriculture, industry, and technology.
Focus on Energy Cooperation at Washington Conference
A key highlight of Barzani’s visit is his participation in a major energy conference in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, alongside U.S. Secretary of Energy Christopher Wright. The high-profile event, hosted by the Al-Monitor Global Institute, brings together top officials and experts to discuss the future of energy in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.
Barzani and Secretary Wright are featured in two dedicated panels focusing on strategic energy developments, investment opportunities, and the growing role of the Kurdistan Region in regional and international energy markets. The conference reflects heightened interest in strengthening Kurdish-American energy cooperation and attracting U.S. investment in the Region’s natural resources.
The discussions are expected to provide a platform for deeper dialogue on sustainable development, gas exports, and Erbil’s role in global energy security.
U.S. State Department Welcomes Expanding Energy Ties
In a separate development, the U.S. State Department's Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs on Wednesday welcomed the growing commercial relationship between the United States and the Kurdistan Region. In a post on X, the bureau wrote: “These types of partnerships will strengthen gas production in Iraq and benefit both of our peoples.”
The statement comes as Barzani oversaw the signing of two major energy agreements with American companies—HKN Energy and WesternZagros—focused on developing significant gas fields in Sulaimani province of the Kurdistan Region. The deals, collectively worth $110 billion over their lifespan, mark a pivotal moment in Kurdish-American economic cooperation.
HKN Energy will lead the development of the Miran Gas Field, estimated to hold 8 trillion standard cubic feet of natural gas, while WesternZagros will operate the Topkhana-Kurdamir blocks, which contain 5 trillion standard cubic feet.
These agreements, struck during Barzani’s official visit, reinforce the Kurdistan Region’s growing appeal to international investors and its role as a reliable energy partner in the Middle East. The U.S. State Department’s public support signals a continued commitment to advancing economic ties and fostering stability in Iraq through energy development.
U.S. Secretary of State Reaffirms Support for KRG, Warns Against Iranian Interference
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed America’s strong support for the KRG and its right to economic development during testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday. His comments came in response to concerns from Congressman Joe Wilson, who warned that Iranian influence over Baghdad threatens recent energy deals between the KRG and U.S. companies.
Wilson criticized Tehran’s interference, saying, “Iran is intruding and trying to stop the agreements. What is being done to support the KRG and the people of Iraq?”
Rubio responded by stressing that Kurdish autonomy is a central pillar of U.S. policy in Iraq. “Our approach is anchored in the autonomy of the Kurdish population,” he said. “Part of that is allowing them an economic lifeline to prosper.”
He added that closer U.S.-Iraq relations depend on Baghdad’s respect for American companies and Kurdish constitutional rights. Rubio also warned that growing Iranian influence—especially through pro-Iran militias—poses a serious threat to U.S. interests and regional stability. “That’s unacceptable and must be addressed,” he stated.
A Message of Confidence
Barzani’s post is seen as a signal to both domestic and international audiences that, despite complex regional challenges — including Baghdad-Erbil budget tensions, regional instability, and external pressure from neighboring states — the Kurdistan Region is committed to deepening its ties with Western allies, particularly the United States.
His visit to Washington and his public affirmation of U.S.-Kurdistan ties underscore the KRG's continued pursuit of a strategic partnership that supports both regional security and long-term development.
Looking Ahead
As geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty persist across the Middle East, the Kurdistan Region appears intent on anchoring its future in strong international alliances. Barzani’s message highlights the enduring nature of the Erbil-Washington relationship and a shared interest in promoting stability, prosperity, and democratic governance in the region.
