Erbil, Kurdistan Region – In a significant diplomatic move, the United States announced plans to inaugurate its largest consulate in the Kurdistan Region next month, reaffirming its longstanding partnership with Erbil and commitment to Iraq’s stability.

At a press conference on Monday, U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed that the new consulate, located in Erbil, will officially open in April. She described the expansion as a testament to Washington’s enduring support for the Kurdistan Region and its role in fostering regional security and cooperation.

“The opening of this consulate will deepen our ties with the Kurdistan Region, and we are committed to collaborating on shared priorities,” Bruce stated. “This step underscores our dedication to strengthening bilateral relations and supporting Iraq’s stability.”

A Major Diplomatic Hub

The Erbil consulate compound, under construction since 2018, is already one of the largest U.S. diplomatic missions globally in terms of size and infrastructure. Its opening marks a significant upgrade in U.S.-Kurdistan relations, with a focus on security cooperation, economic development, and humanitarian assistance.

Bruce emphasized that the facility will serve as a central hub for joint efforts on counter-terrorism, governance, and regional peace. “The Kurdistan Region is a key strategic partner in advancing mutual goals, including the fight against extremism and the stabilization of post-conflict areas in Iraq,” she said.

Decades of U.S. Engagement

The U.S. has maintained a diplomatic presence in Erbil since 2007, elevating it to a consulate general in 2011. The new multimillion-dollar complex signals Washington’s long-term commitment to the Region’s prosperity and security.

Call for Political Unity

Bruce also addressed Kurdistan’s internal political dynamics, urging regional leaders to accelerate efforts toward forming a unified government. “The United States encourages all stakeholders to work together in building a resilient democratic system that serves all Iraqis,” she said.

A Symbol of Stability in a Volatile Region

The consulate’s opening comes as the Kurdistan Region gains renewed international recognition as a stabilizing force in the Middle East. The move is expected to bolster U.S.-Kurdistan ties in diplomacy, trade, and culture while reinforcing American support for Iraq’s sovereignty and federal structure.

As the April inauguration approaches, the expanded consulate stands as a tangible marker of the deepening alliance between Washington and Erbil, with implications for regional security and cooperation.