PM Barzani Hails US Energy Deals as Milestone for Prosperity, Reaffirms Constitutional Rights
Speaking at a press conference, the Prime Minister emphasized that the newly signed energy agreements with two major American oil companies reflect both economic ambition and constitutional legitimacy.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Tuesday reaffirmed the strong and historic ties between the Kurdistan Region and the United States, describing them as the foundation for ongoing cooperation and development, especially in the energy sector.
Speaking at a press conference, the Prime Minister emphasized that the newly signed energy agreements with two major American oil companies reflect both economic ambition and constitutional legitimacy.
“We have a long-standing relationship with the United States, not only because of yesterday's agreements but also due to the deep historical ties between us,” Barzani said. “This is why the United States views the Kurdistan Region as an ally.”
The remarks came one day after the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) signed two significant energy contracts with U.S.-based companies HKN Energy and WesternZagros. Supervised directly by Prime Minister Barzani, the agreements are valued at tens of billions of dollars and are expected to bring transformative development to the Region’s oil and energy sectors and the broader economy.
Barzani dismissed criticism from some political actors in Baghdad, calling their reactions “unjustified.”
“What the Kurdistan Region has done aligns with the constitutional rights granted to us by the Iraqi federal constitution,” he said. “These efforts, aimed at developing the energy sector and fostering economic recovery, are welcomed by the United States.”
The Prime Minister stressed that the deals not only benefit the Kurdistan Region but also serve the broader interests of Iraq. He warned, however, that opposition to such initiatives often stems from political agendas that seek to undermine the Region’s rights and progress.
He called for continued cooperation with international partners to ensure long-term peace and prosperity for all the people of the Kurdistan Region.
The latest agreements mark a significant milestone in the KRG’s strategic push to revitalize its energy infrastructure and strengthen its position as a stable and reliable economic partner in the region.
