Barzani: We Appreciate Iran’s Support; Will Not Back Any Side Against Tehran
Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, spoke about the region’s relations with Iran: “We follow essential principles in our policy and aim to be a factor for security and stability in the region. Following last year’s visit and our meetings with Ayatollah Khamenei, the Supreme Leader, and other senior officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran, we achieved notable mutual understanding on these issues. this understanding continues to this day and I hope it will endure into the future.”
During the annual Middle East Peace and Security conference, Barzani addressed several key issues concerning the Kurds as well as broader regional perspectives.In response to a question regarding his visit to Iran last year-where he met with Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, Supreme Leader of Iran; alongside meetings with the president, speaker of parliament, foreign minister, and other high-ranking Iranian officials-he said: “Iran is an crucial neighbor for us. Based on a core principle-the Kurdistan Region always seeks positive and problem-free relations with Iran. Such as, if we consider only economic ties-the trade exchange between Iran and Kurdistan amounts to approximately $11 to $12 billion annually; most transactions occur within our region.” He emphasized that “the position of Kurdistan has never involved supporting any party against the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
Barzani continued: “The Islamic Republic has assisted us in the past-and we deeply appreciate all their support. As I mentioned earlier-we strive to be a constructive force that ensures security,comfort,and stability in this region. This policy guided us historically; it guides us now; it will guide us going forward.I believe there have been some misunderstandings between us و but so far we have never assisted anyone against them-we never have done so nor will do so in future as we adhere strictly to foundational political principles aiming at regional security and stability.” He added: “I am confident that during our trip to Tehran-in particular after meetings with both His Eminence Ayatollah Khamenei plus other Iranian authorities-we were able establish significant reciprocal understanding on these matters which persists today-and hopefully endures going forward.”
Addressing unfounded allegations against Kurdistan Region he remarked: “These accusations were entirely baseless. It is indeed neither policy nor interest for Kurdish authorities to engage in disputes or problems against Islamic Republic of Iran connections-I believe they realized this increasingly over time as well We had no involvement whatsoever,” adding firmly that “we have always expressed appreciation-and continue doing so-for all assistance provided by Islamic Republic towards our region.”
