September 9, 2026
President Nechirvan Barzani received Elbrus Kutrashev, the departing Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Iraq, on a farewell visit at the end of his tenure.
The President expressed his gratitude for Ambassador Kutrashev’s contributions to strengthening relations between Russia, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. He also extended his best wishes to the Ambassador in his future endeavors.
In response, Ambassador Kutrashev thanked the Presidency of the Kurdistan Region and the relevant institutions for their cooperation and support throughout his tenure. He reiterated Russia’s commitment to further developing its relations with both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
The discussions also focused on Erbil-Baghdad relations and the latest regional developments. The meeting was also attended by the Russian Consul General in Erbil and an accompanying delegation.