Erbil, Kurdistan Region – President Masoud Barzani, leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), met with a delegation of Arab intellectuals, writers, and cultural figures in Salahaddin on Thursday evening, ahead of their participation in the 17th Erbil International Book Fair.

The delegation, visiting the Kurdistan Region for the annual literary event, praised Barzani for his enduring commitment to cultural dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and political engagement in Kurdistan and Iraq.

During the meeting, the guests commended the success of the Erbil International Book Fair and lauded the efforts of its organizers—notably Fakhri Karim and the Al-Mada Foundation—for establishing the fair as a key platform for cultural development in the region. They emphasized its role in promoting social progress, intercultural exchange, and the advancement of literature across the Middle East.

Barzani welcomed the delegation, expressing gratitude for their visit and shared dedication to cultural enrichment. He highlighted the contributions of Kurdish scholars and writers to the region’s intellectual heritage and stressed that culture and enlightenment remain vital for fostering mutual understanding among nations.

The KDP leader also provided a brief overview of Iraq’s political history and the struggles faced by the Kurdish people. In a discussion with the delegation, Barzani addressed questions on the Kurdish cause, Syria’s political developments, and broader regional challenges, offering insights into ongoing transformations.

The meeting underscored the Kurdistan Region’s growing role as a hub for free expression and intellectual exchange—a significance heightened as such values face threats elsewhere in the Middle East.

The 17th Erbil International Book Fair, set to open this weekend, continues to attract regional and international participants, reinforcing its reputation as a major cultural event.