PM Barzani Meets with Many Congressmen
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) - On Thursday and Friday, the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), Masrour Barzani, met with many leaders in the U.S. Congress.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani of the Kurdistan Regional Government engaged in discussions with several U.S. Congress members in Washington, D.C. The meeting saw the participation of notable figures, including the former Speaker to the House Nancy Pelosi, along with Congresspersons Don Bacon (R, Nebraska), Brad Wenstrup (Ohio), and Seth Moulton (Massachusetts), and Amata Coleman Radewagen (American Samoan).
Representative Bacon warmly greeted Prime Minister Barzani on behalf of Congress, praising him as a dedicated champion of freedom. Stressing the vital need for security and stability in the Kurdistan Region, he highlighted the importance of these efforts.
Prime Minister Barzani expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from the United States, emphasizing the significance of upholding the Iraqi constitution for the constitutional rights of the Kurdish nation and acknowledging the Kurdistan Region's federal status.
Specifically, Representative Pelosi, and former Speaker to the House, praised the courage and sacrifices of the Kurdish nation, while Representative Moulton reaffirmed his steadfast support for a strong Kurdistan in every aspect.
I told our congressional friends that the Iraqi Constitution must be the arbiter of the land. It’s what the parties signed up for in 2005.
— Masrour Barzani (@masrourbarzani) February 29, 2024
Our disputes are a byproduct of the non-implementation of the Constitution.
Let’s fix the root cause. pic.twitter.com/QZC747arAm
Read More
Read More: PM Barzani Meets with Key Congressmen
Also on Feb. 29, the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Prime Minister, Masrour Barzani, held a meeting with Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart in Washington, D.C.
The discussions centered around the present situation in both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, with a specific emphasis on the imperative to address Erbil-Baghdad matters in accordance with the principles outlined in the Iraqi constitution. Both parties strongly reaffirmed the pivotal nature of sustaining security and stability within the Kurdistan Region, while concurrently recognizing and upholding its constitutionally guaranteed rights.
Moreover, the discussions underscored the vital commitment to safeguarding the rights of diverse ethnic and religious communities within the Kurdistan Region, highlighting the inclusive approach necessary for fostering harmony and unity.
The participants also mutually acknowledged the ongoing commitment of the United States and the international coalition in providing steadfast support for the Peshmerga forces, further solidifying the collaborative efforts in maintaining regional security.
In another meeting, Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Masrour Barzani met with US Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin in Washington D.C. on Thursday. Their meeting focused on the pressing issues affecting the Kurdistan Region's security and stability.
During the exchange of views, Congresswoman Slotkin expressed her deep-seated concerns regarding the destabilizing factors affecting the region and underscored the utmost significance of Prime Minister Barzani's visit.
The extensive discussions delved into the intricate challenges faced by various ethnic and religious communities in Iraq, particularly shedding light on the plight of the Christian community in the Nineveh Plains.
Of particular concern was the recent decision by the Iraq Federal Supreme Court to abolish minority quota seats in the Kurdistan Region's parliament, a development with far-reaching implications for the representation of these marginalized communities. This decision emerged as a focal point of discussions, sparking a heightened awareness of the potential impact on the political inclusivity of these minority groups.
In the course of their talks, both parties emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding the rights of all ethnic and religious groups in Iraq. The conversation extended to the broader scope of fostering peaceful coexistence, not only within the Kurdistan Region but also echoing the need for harmony across the entirety of Iraq. The recognition of the diverse tapestry of identities and the commitment to upholding their rights emerged as key pillars in promoting a cohesive and inclusive society within the region and the nation at large.
Thank you @RepSlotkin for your warm welcome today.
— Masrour Barzani (@masrourbarzani) February 29, 2024
You have been a good friend to the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. pic.twitter.com/UTI3CFwMA8
The series of meetings concluded when PM Barzani met with senator Chris Van Hollen, elected to the US Senate by the people of Maryland, who has been long-time friends of the Kurds.
In this significant meeting between Prime Minister Masrour Barzani of the Kurdistan Regional Government and United States Senator Chris Van Hollen, the robust strategic alliance between the Kurdistan Region and the United States took center stage.
Senator Van Hollen, underlining the Kurdistan Region's pivotal role as a key ally in the Middle East, reiterated his unwavering commitment to bolstering the region's security, fostering stability, and upholding its constitutional rights within the framework of Iraq.
Senator @ChrisVanHollen and I exchanged views on practical ways to increase U.S. support for the Kurdistan Region.
— Masrour Barzani (@masrourbarzani) February 29, 2024
I also conveyed my appreciation for his longstanding solidarity with our people. pic.twitter.com/9SRwTiBFkJ
Expressing gratitude for the enduring friendship, collaboration, and support from the United States, Prime Minister Barzani underscored the paramount importance of safeguarding the constitutional rights of the Kurdish nation, as well as the rights of diverse ethnic and religious communities. He passionately advocated for the promotion of peaceful coexistence, recognizing it as a fundamental element in ensuring harmonious relations within the region.
Moreover, Prime Minister Barzani, in his capacity as the Prime Minister of Kurdistan Region, issued a compelling call to the international community, urging concerted efforts to protect the rights of all ethnic and religious groups not only in Kurdistan but also throughout Iraq. Emphasizing the imperative of respect for these rights, he appealed for a collective commitment to creating an environment where diversity is celebrated, and the inherent rights of every community are acknowledged and preserved. This resonates as a call for a collaborative global stance to reinforce the principles of inclusivity and human rights in the region.
The many meetings that the Prime Minister had with U.S. legislators reflects the strong bipartisan support that the Kurds have long enjoyed in Congress.
On Tuesday Feb. 26, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani met with Antony Blinken, the United States Secretary of State, in Washington, D.C.
Read More: KRG Prime Minister Meets with U.S. Secretary of State
They discussed issues of mutual interest, developing bilateral relations and resolving disputes between the Kurdistan Region and the Federal Government.
The U.S. Secretary of State highlighted the importance of the Kurdistan Region as a valuable partner of the United States, emphasizing that the partnership is built on shared values, mutual interests, and shared sacrifices. Secretary Blinken expressed his pleasure over the Prime Minister's visit and his meetings in Washington, and he showed support for the security, peace, and stability of the Kurdistan Region as a federal entity within Iraq.