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President of Kurdistan Region to Meet German Chancellor in Berlin, Discuss Bilateral Relations and Regional Issues

Gulan Media June 24, 2023 News
President of Kurdistan Region to Meet German Chancellor in Berlin, Discuss Bilateral Relations and Regional Issues

The President of the Kurdistan Region, Nechirvan Barzani, is scheduled to embark on an official visit to Berlin on Monday, June 26, 2023, where he will meet with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The anticipated meeting aims to address various matters of mutual interest between the Kurdistan Region and Germany, with particular focus on regional dynamics.

German Deputy Spokesperson, Christian Hoffmann, confirmed the visit and highlighted the significance of the meeting, stating that Chancellor Olaf Scholz will warmly welcome President Nechirvan Barzani. Discussions between the two leaders will revolve around strengthening the relationship between the Kurdistan Region and Germany, as well as addressing the latest developments in the Middle East.

Germany has maintained strong ties with the Kurdistan Region, providing substantial support to the Peshmerga forces during the fight against ISIS. Assistance included the provision of Milan anti-tank missiles. In the aftermath of the ISIS attack in 2014, Germany dispatched military advisors to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, contributing to the training of both Peshmerga and Iraqi security forces. At its peak, the German advisory contingent consisted of approximately 160 personnel.

Germany has been a staunch supporter of the Kurdistan Region, particularly following the events of October 16, 2017, when the region faced increased pressure from the central government in Baghdad. Nechirvan Barzani, who was serving as the head of the Kurdistan Regional Government at the time, held meetings with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel. The discussions emphasized the need to strengthen the Kurdistan Region's position within Iraq and sought to resolve issues between Erbil and Baghdad through dialogue, based on the Iraqi constitution.

Deputy Spokesperson for the German government, Christian Hoffmann, shared insights into the upcoming meeting between Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Nechirvan Barzani. He stated that the discussions would encompass local, regional, and international issues. While specifics were not disclosed, Hoffmann assured that the agenda would address local matters in detail.

Germany has consistently provided support to the Yazidi community, working to safeguard their rights. The German government has long been engaged in assisting the Yazidis, and this commitment is expected to continue.

President Nechirvan Barzani's visit to Berlin holds great significance in further strengthening bilateral ties between the Kurdistan Region and Germany. The discussions with Chancellor Olaf Scholz will not only focus on regional dynamics but also provide an opportunity to deepen cooperation and explore avenues for enhanced collaboration in various fields.

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