WANA (May 18) – President of Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, Nechirvan Barzani, emphasized that Iraq is poised to play a significant role in the future of the region, and reassured that the Kurdistan Region will not become a threat to any of its neighbors—particularly the Islamic Republic of Iran.

 

Speaking at the Tehran Dialogue Forum on Sunday afternoon, Barzani stated: “I have invited Dr. Zarif to visit the Kurdistan Region. God willing, he will accept the invitation.”

 

He highlighted recent high-level visits by Iranian officials to the Kurdistan Region, describing them as “very productive sessions.” Barzani added that “dialogue is a long-standing tradition in our region.”

 

Iraq’s Regional Role and Political Shift

Barzani addressed questions about Iraq’s trajectory amid regional developments, saying: “Iraq is an important country in the region and has the potential to play a major role in shaping its future. We are transitioning into a new political phase.”

 

He also referenced a recent Arab leaders’ summit hosted in Baghdad, calling it “a successful event given the current regional context.”

 

Historic Ties with Iran and Security Cooperation

Stressing the close relationship between Iran and Iraq, Barzani said: “We share deep historical, cultural, and political bonds with Iran. During the fight against Daesh (ISIS), Iran was the first country to assist Iraq. Martyr Qassem Soleimani was among the first to support our efforts.”

 

He went on to note the continuous expansion of bilateral ties: “We are witnessing steady progress in all areas of cooperation between Iraq and Iran.”

 

Reassurances on Security and the PKK Issue

Commenting on President Pezeshkian’s upcoming visit and its implications for Erbil-Tehran relations, Barzani recalled his prior discussions with the late President Raisi and the Supreme Leader, calling those talks a “turning point” in bilateral ties.

 

On the issue of the PKK and Iran’s security concerns, Barzani affirmed: “A mechanism has been established between Tehran, Erbil, and Baghdad. We will not allow the Kurdistan Region of Iraq to pose any threat to our neighbors, especially Iran.”

 

He added: “We are making notable progress in the field of security. The Kurdistan Region fully supports the dissolution of the PKK. The Kurdish issue cannot be resolved through violence.”

 

Barzani concluded by welcoming Turkey’s stated willingness to engage, noting that “all parties have expressed serious intent to advance the current process, and we, too, are prepared to assist.”