In a statement released today, Nechirvan Barzani, the President of the Kurdistan Region, extended his warmest congratulations to the Chaldeans, Assyrians, and Syriacs who celebrate Akitu, the Babylonian-Assyrian New Year.

He wished them success and a happy holiday and reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region's commitment to protecting equality, human rights, and liberties while consolidating peaceful coexistence, mutual acceptance, and tolerance among all religious and ethnic communities in Kurdistan.

Barzani also reassured his Christian sisters and brothers and all other communities that the Kurdistan Region will remain the homeland of everyone. The statement emphasized the importance of celebrating cultural diversity and respecting different beliefs and traditions.

Akitu is an ancient festival celebrated by the Chaldean, Assyrian, and Syriac communities, marking the start of the spring season and the new year. The festival is typically observed through various rituals and ceremonies, including the recitation of prayers, the exchange of gifts, and the lighting of bonfires.