The Italian government awarded its highest state honor to Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani on Wednesday. Italy honors Kurdistan President Barzani to recognize his role in strengthening deep bilateral relations. Italian Ambassador Niccolo Fontana presented the award during a ceremony in Erbil. Fontana acted on behalf of Italian President Sergio Mattarella during the event.
Barzani received the Knight of the Grand Cross of the Order of the Star of Italy. This prestigious event shows how Italy honors Kurdistan President Barzani for his major contributions. The honor highlights his work in promoting international relations.
Italy established the order in 1947 to thank contributors to post-war reconstruction. The state shifted the focus toward international cooperation years later.
The honor recognizes achievements in diplomacy, science, and culture today. It also celebrates contributions to trade, humanitarian work, and the arts.
President Barzani joins a notable list of international recipients who received this distinction. Former Argentine President Mauricio Macri previously received this specific honor. Princess Charlene of Monaco holds the distinction as well. Football manager Carlo Ancelotti and singer Frank Sinatra earned the award during their careers.
The selection process involves multiple stages before final approval. The Italian foreign minister proposes candidates during the first phase. A five-member honors council reviews the nominations next. The Italian president makes the ultimate decision at the end of the process.
Relations between Erbil and Rome have grown for over two decades. Barzani met with former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi in 2015. Italy upgraded its Erbil diplomatic office to a Consulate General after that meeting. This move marked a major step forward for both nations.
Barzani met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome in April 2023. Meloni reaffirmed Italy’s strong support for the Kurdistan Region during their talks. She called the region’s stability essential for Middle East peace.
Barzani visited Italy most recently in May 2026. He held productive talks with Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto. He met with Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and President Mattarella to conclude the trip. Italian leaders reiterated their continued political and security support during these meetings.