Austria seeks to strengthen ties with Kurdistan Region, says Kurdistan Region President

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a promising development for regional diplomacy, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani on Tuesday announced Austria's intention to enhance economic and political relations with the Kurdistan Region.

The Kurdistan Region President arrived in Austria following an official invitation to engage in high-level discussions with the Austrian Foreign Minister and President.

Reflecting on their longstanding relationship, Kurdistan Region President Barzani noted the importance of Austria's recent diplomatic efforts. "During the last visit of the Foreign Minister to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, he extended an invitation which led to this significant visit," he stated.

One key topic of discussion was Austria's plans to expand its diplomatic presence in the region. Following the successful opening of its embassy in Baghdad, Austria is now considering the establishment of a consulate in Erbil. "We have requested the opening of the consulate in Erbil, and we will continue to follow up on this matter with the Iraqi ambassador to Austria actively working on it," President Barzani confirmed.

Austria has expressed a keen interest in fostering stronger economic and political ties with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. The Kurdistan Region President emphasized this understanding during his meetings, highlighting the potential for increased cooperation.

In his remarks, President Barzani extended his gratitude to the Austrian President for the warm reception and expressed optimism about the future of their bilateral relations. "We hope that our relations will further develop," he said.

President Barzani also noted Baghdad's commitment to addressing outstanding issues, with the Kurdistan Region proactively seeking long-term solutions. "Baghdad is serious about resolving the issues, and the Kurdistan Region will continue its role in reaching solutions to all the issues, some of which take time and will not be resolved overnight," he concluded.

This visit marks a significant step forward in strengthening the ties between Austria and the Kurdistan Region, paving the way for future collaborations and mutual growth.

In September 2023, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg visited Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region, where he met with top Kurdish leaders, including Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani.

Following decades of closure, the chief diplomat inaugurated his country’s diplomatic mission in Baghdad again. The country is also set to establish its honorary consul in Erbil.

In Dec. 2006, the country’s Austria Airlines was the first European airline to operate direct flights between Erbil and Vienna.