Austria continues to build strong relations with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, emphasizing Barzani’s political profile as key to its efforts. Austria’s ambassador to Iraq, Andrea Nasi, underlined this point during a recent interview where he praised President Nechirvan Barzani’s high-level connections.
Nasi confirmed that Austria works to deepen cooperation with both Baghdad and Erbil. He noted that President Barzani’s political profile strengthens ties between Iraqi leaders and regional players. He also praised Barzani’s personal connection with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and other top officials.
Austria views Iraq as a major regional partner, while Iraq also considers Austria an essential EU ally. Nasi pointed out that both countries have reinforced their partnership through several agreements. These include deals covering air transport, political dialogue, and cooperation between national chambers of commerce.
Although Austria once closed its embassy in Baghdad, it reopened its diplomatic mission to Iraq recently. Austria currently does not operate a consulate in Erbil. However, it continues to maintain a commercial office there, which first opened nearly two decades ago.
Meanwhile, trade between Austria and Iraq is growing. Forty-two Austrian companies currently work across Iraq. Austria’s exports to Iraq rose by 20 percent, reaching €123.5 million. These exports mostly include steel, mechanical tools, optical gear, and dairy products.
Nasi noted that Austria’s investment model focuses on loans and contractual deals, not large equity stakes. He stated that this method allows Austria to support growth while avoiding financial risk. Austria’s strategy also helps advance cooperation in security and migration.
In the Kurdistan Region, nine Austrian companies operate in several key sectors. These areas include energy, economic development, and crisis management. Nasi believes that Austria can offer green technologies, telecom infrastructure, and emergency response systems.
During his official visit to Austria, President Barzani’s political profile helped spotlight opportunities to strengthen ties further. He held talks with Austria’s top leaders, including Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen. Barzani also requested the opening of an Austrian consulate in Erbil to better serve growing bilateral interests.
With continuous diplomatic efforts, Austria hopes to expand its presence in both Baghdad and Erbil. At the center of these efforts remains Barzani’s political profile, which diplomats describe as highly influential in shaping regional stability.