'Gas, Trade, and Unity': Rubio Applauds PM Barzani’s Energy Deals in Key Washington Meeting
A key focus was the finalization of strategic agreements with American companies to expand natural gas production in the IKR—an initiative that Secretary Rubio praised as a major step toward advancing Iraq’s energy independence.
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a pivotal diplomatic engagement on Friday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in Washington, D.C., reaffirming the United States' commitment to deepening ties with the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR).
According to a statement released by the Office of the Spokesperson, the meeting underscored a shared vision for economic cooperation and regional stability.
Secretary Rubio and Prime Minister Barzani explored ways to further enhance trade and investment between the United States and the Kurdistan Region.
"Secretary Rubio and Prime Minister Barzani discussed opportunities to further increase trade and investment between the United States and the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR). The Secretary commended the Prime Minister for finalizing deals with U.S. companies to expand natural gas production in the IKR, which will help Iraq move toward energy independence," the statement read.
A key focus was the finalization of strategic agreements with American companies to expand natural gas production in the IKR—an initiative that Secretary Rubio praised as a major step toward advancing Iraq’s energy independence.
The meeting also addressed broader geopolitical concerns, with both leaders reiterating their mutual commitment to the protection of religious and ethnic minorities across Iraq and Syria. Secretary Rubio emphasized that a strong and resilient Kurdistan Region remains a foundational pillar of the United States’ relationship with Iraq.
The statement, delivered by U.S. State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce, highlighted the significance of the agreements and reaffirmed Washington’s enduring support for the Kurdistan Region amid regional challenges and global energy shifts.
