Erbil hosted an important diplomatic meeting that highlighted Kurdistan Region’s strategic partnership with the United States. President Masoud Barzani welcomed Joshua Harris, the U.S. Charge d’Affaires in Baghdad, in Pirmam, along with U.S. Consul General Wendy Green. The talks reaffirmed the strong relationship between Erbil and Washington, with both sides stressing the importance of cooperation in security, governance, and energy.
Harris delivered a clear message of friendship from Washington to the Kurdistan Region. He emphasized that the United States supports the Kurdistan Region’s constitutional rights within Iraq. He also underlined Washington’s backing of ongoing talks between the Kurdistan Regional Government and Baghdad. The U.S. delegation praised Kurdistan’s achievements in energy and electricity, calling them a successful model for Iraq’s wider development.
Furthermore, the delegation highlighted Washington’s commitment to Iraqi sovereignty and pledged to prevent foreign interference in national affairs. Harris also noted that the U.S. remains committed to ensuring Iraq’s stability through dialogue and cooperation.
President Barzani expressed his gratitude for U.S. support. He also raised concerns about Baghdad’s failure to fully implement constitutional agreements. He explained that such failures continue to create disputes between Erbil and Baghdad. Barzani stressed the need for both governments to respect commitments in order to ensure long-term stability.
The meeting also covered internal matters in the Kurdistan Region, although details remained limited. Harris had earlier met with Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani to discuss regional security, political reforms, and ways to strengthen Erbil-Washington cooperation across several sectors.
The Kurdistan Region plays an essential role in Iraq’s stability and continues to maintain close ties with the United States. Washington views Erbil as a key partner in countering external threats and encouraging political dialogue. Energy development, governance reforms, and security cooperation remain central points of the partnership.
This meeting took place during a period of regional tension and political uncertainty in Iraq. Elections and reform debates dominate the national agenda, while the United States continues to stress dialogue between Erbil and Baghdad as the only path to lasting solutions.
The Kurdistan Region’s strategic position ensures that it remains central to U.S. policy in Iraq. Washington seeks to strengthen Erbil’s role in maintaining security, promoting economic growth, and advancing national unity.