Akre's Newroz Celebrations Shine Amid Fireworks and Diplomatic Engagements

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The historic city of Akre came alive on Thursday night with dazzling fireworks, torch-lit processions, and the joyous spirit of Newroz, as thousands gathered to mark the Kurdish new year.

The celebrations, attended by President Masoud Barzani, Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, and a host of international diplomats, underscored Akre’s reputation as the capital of Newroz, where tradition, culture, and diplomacy intertwine.

Akre, nestled in the mountains of Kurdistan, has long been recognized for its spectacular Newroz celebrations, where young men and women ascend the hills, carrying fire torches that symbolize freedom and resistance.

This year’s festivities drew diplomats from France, Austria, Qatar, Australia, and other diplomatic missions, each emphasizing their nations’ close ties with the Kurdistan Region and their commitment to fostering even stronger political, economic, and cultural relationships.

French Consul General Yann Braem, attending the festival for the second consecutive year, spoke warmly about Akre’s rich multicultural identity and the enduring friendship between France and the Kurdish people.

“I am very happy and excited to be here this evening. For me, being in Akre on this very special day means a lot,” Braem said. “Last year, Akre was named the capital of Newroz for the first time, and this year we are spending another wonderful time together. The young people lighting fire torches on the mountains—it means a lot to me, and I know it means a lot to the Kurdish people.”

Braem highlighted Akre’s diversity, pointing to its historical role as a home to various religious communities, including Muslims, Christians, and even remnants of Zoroastrian heritage.

“Akre is a place that truly reflects the multicultural essence of Kurdistan and Iraq,” he stated. He also reaffirmed France’s deep-rooted relationship with the Kurdistan Region. “President Emmanuel Macron frequently discusses Kurdistan and meets regularly with President Nechirvan Barzani and Prime Minister Masrour Barzani. Our relationship is not only political or economic—it is also about people-to-people ties, which we are eager to reinforce.”

Austrian Ambassador to Iraq Andrea Nasi also attended the event, expressing Austria’s strong relations with the Kurdistan Region. “I am honored and happy to be here. This celebration makes me feel as if I am at home and among friends,” Nasi said.

He described Austria’s participation in Newroz as a reflection of the positive diplomatic and cultural relationship between the two regions. “Newroz is a symbol of unity and renewal, and we are pleased to be part of it,” he added.

Qatar’s Consul General in the Kurdistan Region, Hussain Bin Ali Al-Fadala, emphasized the strong political and economic bonds between Qatar and the KRG. “Our relations are fraternal, political, and economic, and we continue to work on strengthening them,” he said.

Al-Fadala recalled the opening of Qatar’s consulate in the Kurdistan Region last year, which marked a significant step toward expanding bilateral cooperation. “Beyond our official ties, we share a deep sense of brotherhood, and this celebration is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to further collaboration,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Australian Ambassador to Iraq Glenn Miles underscored the importance of cultural understanding and people-to-people ties. “We have very good relations with the Kurdistan Region. Australia is home to about 100,000 Australians of Iraqi descent, many of whom come from Kurdistan, which has fostered strong personal and cultural connections,” he said.

Miles admitted that Newroz and its traditions were not widely known in Australia, making his visit to Akre all the more significant. “Seeing the celebrations firsthand allows us to better understand the history behind Newroz and the significance it holds for the Kurdish people,” he noted.

As Akre’s hills glowed with fire and the skies lit up with fireworks, the gathering of local and international figures reinforced the broader significance of Newroz—beyond being a celebration of the changing seasons, it is a powerful symbol of resilience, identity, and diplomacy.

The presence of numerous foreign dignitaries at this year’s celebrations highlighted the Kurdistan Region’s growing engagement with the international community, as well as the deep friendships forged through cultural and political exchanges.

As the festivities drew to a close, one message resonated across the city’s ancient streets: Newroz is more than just a festival—it is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Kurdish people and their aspirations for a future filled with peace, unity, and international solidarity.