Senior Advisor John Dickson Praises Kurdistan Region as a Model of Peace and Stability in Middle East

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — John Dickson, Senior Advisor at the Global Peace Foundation, highlighted the Kurdistan Region’s unique role in promoting peace, stability, and interfaith harmony in the Middle East during an exclusive interview with Kurdistan24 on Sunday.

Reflecting on the shifting dynamics in the region, Dickson emphasized that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) stands out as a vital partner for the United States.

“We're very happy to see the reception Prime Minister Barzani is receiving during his visit,” he said. “The US relationship with the KRG is very unique and strong.”

Dickson praised the Kurdistan Region's representation in Washington, noting the significance of having a KRG office so close to the White House. He commended Treefa Aziz and her predecessor, Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman, for their outstanding work in representing the Region’s interests.

Highlighting the Kurdistan Region's ethnic and religious diversity, Dickson said, “The harmony and mutual respect among different groups is outstanding and serves as a great model for others in the region.”

He stressed that Kurdistan Region’s commitment to peace, even in the face of past suffering, sets an example not only for the Middle East but for the world.

Dickson also praised the role of the Peshmerga forces, calling them “great warriors” and expressing support for broad recognition of their contributions to global security.

At the Global Peace Foundation, he noted, a new recognition program is being launched to share the Peshmerga’s story with the world. “Many people don’t know their stories, and that needs to change,” he said.

He welcomed the focus of Prime Minister Barzani’s visit on development, energy, and business, emphasizing that such cooperation is essential for long-term peace.

“Stability is not just built through treaties, but through people-to-people engagement and commerce. That’s the strongest support for peace and stability,” he said.

Dickson underlined the importance of continued exchanges between US and Kurdish universities and institutions, noting that deeper collaboration would benefit Iraq, the broader region, and the international community.

Speaking of the broader geopolitical context, he remarked, “This is a completely new US administration with a very different approach—militarily as well. President Trump was very strong in his first administration in stopping ISIS. There is a deep commitment.”

He concluded with optimism about the future of US-KRG ties, expressing hope that the strong partnership would reduce the need for future military intervention.

“I believe the US government, the Peshmerga, and the KRG will do everything possible to strengthen the relationship, so that military intervention won’t be needed,” Dickson said.