The Russian Consul General in Erbil, Maxsim Rubin, reaffirmed the depth of Russia–Kurdistan relations, describing the Kurdistan Region as an “Island of stability” in the Middle East. He emphasized that the region holds a special position in Iraq and continues to play an important role in regional affairs.
Rubin praised the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) for maintaining peace and stability despite ongoing tensions across the Middle East. He highlighted that the Kurdistan Region remains one of the safest areas in Iraq, offering security for residents and investors alike. This, he said, demonstrates the effectiveness of the KRG and Iraq’s leadership in safeguarding the region’s progress.
Reflecting on his four-year tenure in Erbil, Rubin said that his experience had deepened both personal and professional connections with the region. He noted that Russia and the Kurdistan Region regularly exchange views on political, economic, and cultural matters, finding shared interests that strengthen bilateral ties.
Rubin underscored Russia’s ongoing contribution to education, revealing that Moscow provides 75 annual scholarships for Kurdish students. This initiative helps foster long-term cultural and academic links, which form an essential part of Russia–Kurdistan relations.
On the economic front, Rubin described the energy sector as the “backbone” of both economies. Russian companies, including Gazprom and Russneft, have invested nearly $5 billion in the Kurdistan Region’s oil industry. He added that the KRG continues to attract investors by simplifying customs, taxation, and registration processes.
Russia was among the first nations to open a representation in Erbil in 2007. Over the following decade, Russian energy giants expanded their footprint in the region. In 2012, Gazprom signed contracts for oil exploration in two blocks, later increasing to three. Rosneft followed in 2017 with a $2.1 billion investment, beginning Russian imports of Kurdish oil.
These strategic investments have strengthened Russia–Kurdistan relations and contributed to the region’s economic growth. Today, Russian companies remain central players in the Kurdistan Region’s energy market, underscoring the enduring partnership between Moscow and Erbil.