PM Barzani, Japanese ambassador discuss deepening ties

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Wednesday discussed “deepening the ties between Japan and the Kurdistan Region,” in his meeting with Futoshi Matsumoto, the Japanese Ambassador to Iraq, according to a statement from the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG).

They also addressed “the progress of various initiatives spearheaded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).”

“These initiatives are aimed at improving critical infrastructure in the region, including water and sewerage systems as well as energy projects,” the statement added.

The Japanese envoy reiterated Japan's commitment to supporting the Kurdistan Region's efforts to maintain security and stability.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Barzani thanked Japan for its continued support and solidarity, emphasizing his desire to strengthen relations between the Kurdistan Region and Japan.

On Nov. 5, 2022, Matsumoto announced that Japan had provided long-term loans to the Iraqi Government through JICA to improve the electricity, water, and agriculture sectors in Iraq.

The JICA has undertaken several projects with the KRG including waterways, agriculture, and electrical infrastructure. It has also been in talks with the KRG’s Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism to amend the capital Erbil’s current master plan of renovating the entire city, including the Citadel, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Centre.