U.S. Energy Deals Reflect Growing Confidence in Kurdistan, Says KRG Minister
“These deals, signed during a time of great regional uncertainty in the Middle East, clearly show that the Kurdistan Region remains a place of trust for global energy firms and our international friends,” said the KRG Minister of Interior.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Kurdistan Region’s Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed stated on Tuesday that Prime Minister Masrour Barzani’s ongoing official visit to Washington is strong evidence that the Kurdistan Region has become a reliable destination for global companies and trusted partners, particularly in the fields of energy and construction.
The remarks came during the opening of the 15th International Energy and Construction Fair in Erbil, on Tuesday with participation from numerous local and international companies, as well as senior Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) officials. The fair is scheduled to run for four days, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily.
Speaking to reporters after the inauguration ceremony, Minister Ahmed emphasized that the number of international participants this year reflects growing confidence in the Region’s economic and industrial sectors.
“This year, many of the exhibitors are local companies, owned by successful young entrepreneurs. A large portion of the showcased products are locally manufactured and meet international standards, especially in sectors like steel, cement, and other heavy construction materials,” he said.
He stressed that organizing such exhibitions illustrates the Region's progress on the right path, adding:
“Day by day, Kurdistan’s construction and commercial sectors are advancing. These fairs are a sign of our growing capabilities and self-reliance.”
PM Barzani’s Strategic Visit to Washington
KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani is currently on an official visit to the United States, where he has already held several high-level meetings with American officials and is expected to meet with more in the coming days. On Monday evening, he oversaw the signing of two key energy agreements between the Kurdistan Ministry of Natural Resources and U.S.-based energy giants, HKN Energy and Western Zagros.
Minister Ahmed hailed the agreements as a milestone, stating:
“These deals, signed during a time of great regional uncertainty in the Middle East, clearly show that the Kurdistan Region remains a place of trust for global energy firms and our international friends.”
He further highlighted that major companies from Europe and the U.S. are increasingly eyeing investment opportunities in the Kurdistan Region.
“We hope these agreements will bring broader economic development to the Region,” he said.
Local Industry and International Recognition
Rebar Ahmed reiterated that Prime Minister Barzani places significant emphasis on supporting domestic production, a central tenet of his cabinet’s economic policy.
“The Prime Minister has always prioritized domestic products. One of the key focuses of his cabinet is to strengthen local industry, build international relations, and attract foreign investment,” the Interior Minister noted.
Kurdistan’s Position Amid Regional Tensions
Prime Minister Barzani’s visit to the U.S. and the signing of new energy deals come at a critical time, as the Middle East faces heightened instability due to ongoing regional conflicts and economic uncertainties. The Kurdistan Region’s ability to host multinational firms and secure long-term investments despite these challenges is being viewed as a testament to its political stability and economic potential.
This renewed international engagement, underpinned by high-level visits and major agreements, signals a new chapter in the Kurdistan Region’s efforts to become not only an economic hub but also a diplomatic bridge amid broader regional dynamics.
