President Nechirvan Barzani’s statement on Kurdish Journalism Day

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 06:30:00 +00:00

April 22, 2026

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all journalists and media professionals in Kurdistan on the 128th anniversary of the publication of the Kurdistan newspaper, founded by Mir Miqdad Midhat Badirkhan, and the 28th anniversary of the Kurdistan Journalists Syndicate.

On this significant occasion, we reaffirm our steadfast commitment to safeguarding press freedom and freedom of expression, which are essential pillars of democracy and a thriving civil society.

We will continue our efforts to create a suitable and free environment for media work, ensuring that the right to access information is upheld and that journalists receive the professional protection they deserve.

Free and courageous journalism serves as a vital partner in promoting good governance and justice. I urge journalists to uphold the public interest and social harmony with the highest degree of integrity and professionalism, and to contribute to the promotion of a culture of coexistence, mutual respect, and tolerance, fostering a spirit of patriotism and affection for the nation.

I pay tribute to the memory of the martyrs of journalism and all those who dedicated their lives to the cause of free expression.

Nechirvan Barzani
President of the Kurdistan Region

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President Nechirvan Barzani meets with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 14:55:00 +00:00

April 18, 2026

As part of his ongoing engagements at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, President Nechirvan Barzani met with Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President of Türkiye.

During the meeting, they held in-depth discussions on strengthening Türkiye’s cooperation with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region and exchanged views on developments in the region. Both sides emphasized their shared commitment to advancing development and maintaining stability across the region.

Another focus of the meeting was expanding the scope of joint cooperation in various fields. Both sides reaffirmed that dialogue remains the best way to resolve crises and safeguard shared interests.

For his part, President Nechirvan Barzani expressed his gratitude to President Erdoğan for his leadership and continued efforts to ease tensions and preserve security and stability in the region.

Other issues of mutual interest were also discussed.

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President Nechirvan Barzani meets with the Secretary-General of the Arab League

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 13:06:00 +00:00

April 18, 2026

President Nechirvan Barzani met with Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the Arab League, on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum.

During the meeting, the latest political and security developments in Iraq and the wider region were discussed, along with relations between the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and Arab countries.

Both sides stressed the importance of maintaining stability and working jointly to prevent the escalation of crises in the Middle East.

The impact and consequences of the war on countries in the region were also a key topic of discussion.

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President Nechirvan Barzani and Türkiye’s Defense Minister underscore the critical role of peace

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 08:42:00 +00:00

April 18, 2026

On the second day of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, President Nechirvan Barzani held a meeting with Türkiye’s Defense Minister, Yaşar Güler.

Their discussions focused on recent developments in the region and their implications. Both sides highlighted the necessity of upholding the ceasefire, fostering peace, and ensuring stability in the Middle East.

Türkiye’s Defense Minister commended the Kurdistan Region for distancing itself from regional conflicts, calling for broad coordination to preserve peace and stability. He also lauded the efforts of the Kurdistan Region’s President in this regard.

In response, President Nechirvan Barzani reaffirmed that the Kurdistan Region will consistently act as a pillar of peace and stability, expressing his desire to strengthen ties with neighboring countries based on mutual interests.

Relations between Türkiye, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region — along with their mutual cooperation — were also among the topics discussed.

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President Nechirvan Barzani and the Jordanian Foreign Minister pledge to bolster bilateral relations

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +00:00

April 17, 2026

During the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, President Nechirvan Barzani met with Ayman Safadi, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

The talks centered on the longstanding historical relationship between the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and the Kingdom of Jordan, with both sides exploring avenues to strengthen bilateral cooperation. President Nechirvan Barzani expressed his appreciation for Jordan’s continuous support toward Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

The meeting further examined the latest developments across the region, including the potential impact of ongoing conflicts and tensions. Both parties agreed that coordinated efforts are essential to preserving peace and stability, and to preventing any further deterioration of the security situation.

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President Nechirvan Barzani meets with the European Union’s Special Representative for the Gulf region

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:30:00 +00:00

April 17, 2026

During the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, President Nechirvan Barzani met with Luigi Di Maio, European Union Special Representative for the Gulf region.

Their discussion focused on strengthening relations between the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and the member states of the European Union. Both sides emphasized the necessity of cooperation and continued efforts to ensure security and stability and strengthen economic and political partnerships.

The meeting also addressed recent developments in the Middle East, including the implications of the conflict and rising tensions. They emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and the success of diplomatic efforts to address challenges and avert further complications in the region.

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President Nechirvan Barzani and UK Minister of State discuss the situation in Iraq and the region

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +00:00

April 17, 2026

On the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, President Nechirvan Barzani met with Hamish Falconer, UK Minister of State for the Middle East.

The meeting centered on strengthening ties between the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and the United Kingdom, with discussions covering recent political developments and the ongoing government formation process in both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Both parties stressed that unity and solidarity among Kurdistani parties are essential to protecting past gains and navigating current challenges.

The meeting also addressed the volatile situation in the region and the fallout from ongoing conflict, with Syria as a central concern. The UK Minister of State commended President Nechirvan Barzani for his constructive contributions to fostering peace and stability across Iraq and Syria.

Both sides agreed that issues can only be resolved through dialogue and peaceful means, and that the region must be protected from further escalation.

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President Nechirvan Barzani meets with Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 10:30:00 +00:00

April 17, 2026

President Nechirvan Barzani met with Saeed Khatibzadeh, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in Antalya, where they discussed the regional situation and the repercussions of the conflicts.

Both sides emphasized the importance of maintaining the ceasefire, dialogue, and mutual understanding to prevent further escalation, achieve peace, and preserve stability and security across the Middle East.

Relations between Iraq, the Kurdistan Region, and the Islamic Republic of Iran were also a key topic of discussion, with both sides stressing the need to strengthen ties and enhance joint cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

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President Nechirvan Barzani and Syrian President discuss regional developments

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:43:00 +00:00

April 17, 2026

During the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, President Nechirvan Barzani met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, President of the Syrian Arab Republic.

Their discussions focused on enhancing relations between the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and Syria, particularly in the areas of economic and trade cooperation, as well as the latest regional developments and the implications of the conflict. Both sides concurred on the importance of regional cooperation to avert risks to peace and stability.

Another topic of discussion was the situation in Syria, particularly concerning the Kurds and other communities within the country. President Nechirvan Barzani expressed his gratitude to President al-Sharaa and the Syrian government for their commitment to resolving the conflict and achieving an agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces.

In response, President al-Sharaa expressed his gratitude to President Nechirvan Barzani and the Kurdistan Region’s leadership for their dedication and assistance in promoting peace and addressing the challenges.

Other topics of discussion included matters of mutual interest.

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President Nechirvan Barzani and the U.S. Special Envoy to Syria discuss regional developments

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 06:08:00 +00:00

April 17, 2026

During the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, President Nechirvan Barzani met with Tom Barrack, U.S. Special Envoy to Syria and U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye.

Their discussions focused on the relationship of the Kurdistan Region and Iraq with the United States, recent developments in Syria and the situation of the Kurds within the country, as well as broader developments in the Middle East and the implications of the war on regional security.

Both sides highlighted the impact of the war on Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, stressing the urgent need for collaboration and sustained efforts to build lasting peace and uphold stability and security across the region.

Other topics of discussion included matters of mutual interest.

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President Nechirvan Barzani attends the Antalya Diplomacy Forum

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:01:00 +00:00

April 16, 2026

President Nechirvan Barzani has arrived in Antalya following an official invitation to attend the annual diplomacy forum held in Antalya, Türkiye.

During the forum, President Nechirvan Barzani is scheduled to meet with high-ranking leaders and officials from various countries, as well as forum participants, to discuss regional developments and several other matters of mutual interest.

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President Nechirvan Barzani’s message on the anniversary of the chemical attack on Balisan, Sheikh Wasanan, and Khoshnawti Valley

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +00:00

April 16, 2026

Today marks the 39th anniversary of the chemical assault on Balisan, Sheikh Wasanan, and Khoshnawti Valley. This heinous act, perpetrated by the former Iraqi regime in 1987, initiated a tragic series of brutal chemical attacks against civilians, lands, and the natural environment of Kurdistan.

On this solemn day, we remember the martyrs, and our thoughts are with their loved ones and with everyone who has been affected by this terrible atrocity.

Balisan, Sheikh Wasanan, and the whole Khoshnawti Valley have long stood as bastions of patriotism and steadfast devotion to the revolution and the Peshmerga. It was precisely for this reason that they became targets of these brutal attacks—yet the people of Kurdistan held their ground, while the perpetrators fell.

May peace be upon the souls of the martyrs of Khoshnawti and all the fallen heroes of Kurdistan.

Nechirvan Barzani
President of the Kurdistan Region

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President Nechirvan Barzani and French Ambassador discuss regional developments and political process

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:42:00 +00:00

April 15, 2026

President Nechirvan Barzani received Mr. Patrick Durel, Ambassador of France to Iraq.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed recent regional developments and the broader impact of the conflict on security and stability across the Middle East and beyond. They further voiced hope that the ceasefire would hold, ultimately bringing the war to an end and opening the door to lasting peace.

President Nechirvan Barzani commended the efforts of France and President Emmanuel Macron for their ongoing role in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, as well as their support for Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

The political process in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region was another key topic of the meeting, with both sides emphasizing the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding among all parties to resolve outstanding issues.

Mr. Yann Braem, Consul General of France in the Kurdistan Region, was also present at the meeting.

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President Nechirvan Barzani congratulates Yezidis on the New Year

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 05:30:00 +00:00

April 15, 2026

I wish to extend my sincere congratulations to Yezidis in the Kurdistan Region, across Iraq, and throughout the world on the occasion of the Yezidi New Year. May this holiday bring peace and happiness to everyone. I hope that this New Year marks the beginning of a year filled with success and security.

On this special occasion, we renew our commitment to our Yezidi community, affirming that the Kurdistan Region will remain a land of coexistence, forgiveness, and mutual respect for all communities. We will stand firmly behind their legitimate rights and aspirations.

Wishing you all a happy New Year.

Nechirvan Barzani
President of the Kurdistan Region

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President Nechirvan Barzani’s message on the commemoration of Anfal

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +00:00

April 14, 2026

Today, we solemnly observe the 38th anniversary of the infamous Anfal campaign of 1988, a horrific act perpetrated by the former Iraqi regime that resulted in the deaths of more than 182,000 innocent people of Kurdistan, including children, women, men, and youth. Anfal was not merely a crime; it was a brutal attempt to eradicate a peaceful people, leaving deep scars that continue to affect our nation today.

On this occasion, we honor the memories of the martyrs and extend our heartfelt condolences to their families. In accordance with the ruling of the Iraqi High Criminal Court, we reiterate that it is the duty of the Iraqi Federal Government to provide compensation to the victims’ families.

On the international front, we will persist in our efforts to have Anfal recognized as an act of genocide. As part of our humanitarian and national obligation, we will tirelessly pursue the search for and return of the martyrs’ remains and ensure they are brought back to their homeland. It is imperative that we provide significantly more support to the surviving families of Anfal.

On this commemoration, we stress that safeguarding the constitutional status of the Kurdistan Region and our achievements can only be realized through the unity and joint efforts of all political parties and communities. This represents the highest form of respect for the martyrs’ sacrifices and is essential for securing a brighter future for the next generations.

May peace be upon the souls of the Anfal martyrs and all the fallen heroes of Kurdistan.

Nechirvan Barzani
President of the Kurdistan Region

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President Nechirvan Barzani congratulates new Patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 11:27:00 +00:00

April 12, 2026

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Eminence Patriarch Mar Paul III Nona on his election as the new Patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church. I wish him great success in this sacred role and in his service to the Church and its followers.

He is a distinguished religious leader with extensive experience. We are hopeful that his election will serve as a blessing and further enhance the spirit of tolerance, coexistence, and mutual acceptance among all communities.

We emphasize that the Kurdistan Region will continue to be a safe haven for all religious and ethnic groups, and we remain committed to supporting all our Christian citizens in safeguarding their rights, identity, and rich history in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

Nechirvan Barzani
President of the Kurdistan Region

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President Nechirvan Barzani meets with Commander of Coalition Forces

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:12:00 +00:00

April 9, 2026

President Nechirvan Barzani received Major General Kevin Lambert, Commander of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve.

Their discussions focused on recent security developments in the region. Both sides emphasized the necessity of continued cooperation between the Peshmerga, the Iraqi Army, the security forces of Iraq, and coalition forces, particularly during this critical period to ensure stability and address challenges.

Another topic addressed was the threat of terrorism and the fight against ISIS, the repercussions of the war on Iraq and the surrounding region, as well as other matters of mutual interest.

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Statement from the President of the Kurdistan Region

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 06:13:00 +00:00

April 7, 2026

I strongly denounce the terrorist attack that took place late last night at a citizen's residence in the village of Zargazawi, situated in Erbil, which sadly led to the martyrdom of a married couple.

I extend my sincere condolences to the families of the martyrs. I pray that God bestows mercy upon their souls and grants peace and comfort to their loved ones.

Such acts are intolerable and are completely condemned. The Iraqi Federal Government must uphold its duties and responsibilities to avert the recurrence of these heinous crimes and acts of terrorism, and it is imperative that these assaults on innocent civilians in the Kurdistan Region come to an end.

Nechirvan Barzani
President of the Kurdistan Region

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President Nechirvan Barzani receives a phone call from President Ahmed al-Sharaa

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +00:00

April 6, 2026

On Monday evening, President Nechirvan Barzani received a phone call from Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

During the conversation, both leaders shared their perspectives on the regional situation and the recent developments regarding the war and its repercussions. They emphasized the necessity of enhancing diplomatic initiatives to halt the conflict and achieve a peaceful resolution.

Additionally, they highlighted the significance of upholding peace and stability within the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. In this regard, President al-Sharaa denounced the assaults on the Kurdistan Region.

The two leaders also addressed the circumstances of the Kurds and other communities in Syria, as well as Syria's relations with Iraq and various other matters of mutual concern.

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President Nechirvan Barzani’s message on the occasion of Easter

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +00:00

April 5, 2026

As we observe Easter, I wish to extend my sincere congratulations to Christians in the Kurdistan Region, across Iraq, and throughout the world. May this festive occasion bring happiness and serenity to all.

On this special occasion, we reaffirm that the Kurdistan Region will continue to be a beacon of coexistence, unity, and mutual acceptance among all religious and ethnic groups. Our Christian citizens are a vital part of Kurdistan’s community and have a rich history of collaboration and shared struggle with the people of Kurdistan.

Wishing everyone a joyful Easter and a peaceful holiday.

Nechirvan Barzani
President of the Kurdistan Region

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