President Masoud Barzani met Hungary’s Ambassador to Iraq, Osama Ibrahim Naffa, in Pirmam to discuss enhancing Kurdistan–Hungary relations and regional security.
The Hungarian envoy conveyed greetings from Hungary’s president and prime minister. He highlighted Budapest’s interest in expanding political, economic, and cultural cooperation with the Kurdistan Region. Hungary aims to strengthen diplomatic, educational, and cultural ties, including scholarship programs and exchange initiatives.
President Barzani welcomed the ambassador and emphasized the importance of broadening relations between the Kurdistan Region and Hungary. He underlined the value of sustained diplomacy and mutual cooperation in regional and international matters.
The meeting focused on security challenges, especially the threat of terrorism and the potential resurgence of ISIS. Both sides agreed on the need for ongoing international coordination to prevent extremist groups from regaining strength and to safeguard regional stability. Developments in Syria and Iraq’s political process were also discussed.
Relations between Kurdistan and Hungary have grown over the past decade. Hungary has provided political support, humanitarian aid, and limited military assistance to Kurdish and Iraqi forces during the fight against ISIS since 2014. Hungary’s Middle East policy emphasizes stability, migration management, and the protection of minority communities, aligning with Kurdistan’s secure and pluralistic environment.
As a veteran Kurdish leader, President Barzani plays a key role in regional security and political discussions. He regularly hosts diplomats and security delegations in Erbil and Pirmam. His experience helps mediate conflicts and support stability amid tensions in Iraq, Syria, and the broader region.
By reinforcing Kurdistan–Hungary ties, the meeting highlights Erbil and Pirmam as strategic centers for dialogue on security, governance, and counterterrorism in the Middle East.