American-Kurdish association challenges IS in Makhmour

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region (Kurdistan24) – The American-Kurdish Friendship Association (AKFA) commemorated the Newroz celebrations in Makhmour by lighting a fire at the Peshmerga frontlines on Saturday.

Sirwan Barzani, the Co-founder of the AKFA and the Peshmerga commander in Gwer and Makhmour fronts, said, “We have gathered here today in response and to challenge the terrorists, especially considering what has happened a few days ago.”

Representatives of coalition forces, foreign diplomats and local officials in the Kurdistan Region attended the event. “The terrorists will not be able to stop us, today we will light the fire of Newroz in the frontlines as the fire is a symbol of resistance,” Barzani said.

The US Consul General in Erbil Matthias Mitman, during his speech at the event, said, “Peshmerga efforts have given us the opportunity to celebrate and enjoy Newroz in peace and security.”

“The strong partnership between the Kurdistan Region and the United States does not only include military cooperation,” Mitman added.

The Consul General highlighted several other areas where the US is contributing. “Relations extend to humanitarian assistance, rebuilding the economy, and growing the economy links between us and helping the Americans and the Kurds better understand each other,” he stated.

“The US military partnership with the Kurdistan Region has never been stronger; the US recently donated two full brigade sets to the Peshmerga, including over 4,000 sets of individual equipment, and heavy guns,” Mitman revealed.

The US Consul General revealed that the Americans will continue providing assistance to the Peshmerga forces and will look for a mechanism to increase and improve the capabilities of the Peshmerga in the fight against the Islamic State (IS).

The AFKA was established in 2009 and specializes in reinforcing and cultivating the friendly relationship between the Kurdish and American nations. The Association aims to utilize each nation’s experience in all life sectors such as: economy, education, culture, arts, sports and science.

Reporting by Baxtiyar Goran
Editing by Karzan Sulaivany

Photos: Kurdistan24/Alexandre Afonso