"Kurdistan's Flag is a symbol of peace, coexistence, steadfastness and sacrifice", President Barzani

Dec. 17, 2024

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - On Tuesday, President Masoud Barzani released a poignant message on X (formerly Twitter) commemorating Kurdistan Flag Day, stressing the flag's deeper meaning and importance beyond a mere national symbol.

In his message, President Barzani stated: "The Kurdistan flag carries the message of peace, coexistence, perseverance, and the sacrifices of the Kurdish people. May Flag Day be blessed for all beloved Kurdistani people."

The historical roots of this commemoration trace back to December 17, 1945, when the Kurdish flag was first raised over the institutions of the Kurdistan Republic in Mahabad - a moment of profound national symbolism.

Legally, the Kurdistan Parliament formalized the flag's significance through two key legislative actions:

- On Nov.  11, 1999, passing Law No. 4 regarding the regional flag
- On June 19, 2009, through Resolution No. 48, officially designating January 17th as Kurdistan Flag Day

President Barzani's message underlines the flag's role not just as a national symbol, but as a strong representation of Kurdish identity, resilience, and aspirations for peace and unity.

Below is the full text of President Barzani’s message on Kurdistan Flag Day:

The Kurdistan flag carries the message of peace, coexistence, perseverance, and the sacrifices of the Kurdish people. May Flag Day be blessed for all beloved Kurdistani people.

We congratulate the Flag Day to all dear Kurdistanis.

Ala Kurdistanê hilgirê peyama aştî, pêkvejiyan, berxwedan û cangoriya gelê Kurdistanê ye.
Roja ala li hemû Kurdistaniyên ezîz pîroz be.

— Masoud Barzani (@masoud_barzani) December 17, 2024