Chinese Consul-General: relations with KRG expanding

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region (K24) – Relations between China and Kurdistan Region are steadily developing, said the Consul-General Tan Banglin of the People’s Republic of China on Tuesday.

In an interview with the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Department of the Foreign Relations (DFR), Banglin detailed the many ways both China and KRG are strengthening bilateral ties. He also highlighted the humanitarian aid that China has delivered to the Region in the war against Islamic State (IS).

Banglin explained that the Consulate General enjoys warm and friendly communication with KRG ministries and departments, and focused on promoting cooperation between the two sides in various fields.

“As Consulate General of China in Erbil, we’ll continue our efforts in promoting the exchange of visits and cooperation, encouraging Chinese companies to develop economic and trade cooperation with Kurdish partners,” he stated.

The Consul-General revealed that both sides focused their economic relationship regarding two central aspects. First, he mentioned that they would continue their efforts to build the Consulate to its optimal capacity in providing faster visa services for those in Kurdistan Region. Second, Banglin stated that the Consulate was working with KRG ministries to enhance economic development.

Banglin revealed that multiple delegations from various Kurdish political parties had visited China for training as part of exchange programs between the two sides.

Elaborating on these efforts, he added, “For economic cooperation, we support companies like Huawei, Sinoma-Suzhou, and CMEC to invest in Kurdistan Region.”

“Sinoma-Suzhou has invested $13.4 million dollars in Kurdistan Region to construct a steel structure factory, which has already been put into operation. The cement factory construction project by CMEC is in full swing,” Banglin continued.

The Consul-General also explained that there are ongoing cultural exchanges and activities between both sides.
 
Reporting by Ehsan Mamakani
Editing by Benjamin Kweskin and Karzan Sulaivany