Erbil, Kurdistan Region – Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yılmaz held high-level meetings in the Kurdistan Region on Friday, discussing political developments, regional cooperation, and Turkey’s internal peace process with key Kurdish leaders.

Meetings with Kurdish Leadership

Yılmaz, accompanied by Turkish Ambassador to Iraq Anil Bora Inan and Consul General in Erbil Irman Topçu, first met with Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) President Masoud Barzani in Salahaddin (Pirmam). Their discussions centered on the Kurdistan Region’s internal political affairs, including the formation of the new cabinet, as well as broader regional dynamics.

Both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening Erbil-Ankara relations and supporting Turkey’s peace efforts. Barzani reiterated his backing for reconciliation initiatives, while Yılmaz expressed gratitude for the Kurdistan Region’s consistent support.

Later, in Erbil, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani welcomed Yılmaz, with talks focusing on bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and the urgent need to resume oil exports through Turkey’s Ceyhan port. They also reviewed progress on the Development Road Project, a major infrastructure initiative linking the Gulf, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region with Turkey and Europe.

PM Barzani affirmed his government’s commitment to regional stability and economic integration, while both sides voiced support for Turkey’s peace process.

President Nechirvan Barzani Stresses Support for Peace Efforts
Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani also met with Yılmaz, discussing Turkey-Iraq relations, energy cooperation, and regional security. President Barzani reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s full backing for Turkey’s peace process, stating that successful reconciliation would benefit the entire region.

The two sides agreed that a peaceful resolution in Turkey could unlock broader political and economic opportunities, reinforcing stability across the Middle East.

Renewed Momentum in Turkey’s Peace Process

Yılmaz’s visit comes amid renewed Turkish efforts to address the Kurdish question. Since October 2024, Turkey has intensified dialogue with the pro-Kurdish DEM Party, including meetings between an Imrali delegation and jailed PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan, as well as talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

The DEM Party recently described discussions with Erdoğan as “constructive and principled,” while Öcalan reportedly urged the PKK to disarm and hold a congress, raising hopes for revived peace talks.

Strengthening Erbil-Ankara Relations

Yılmaz’s visit underscores deepening ties between Turkey and the Kurdistan Region, with both sides aligning on economic connectivity, energy security, and political stability. The meetings signal a potential new phase of cooperation and dialogue, with the Kurdistan Region playing a supportive role in Turkey’s peace efforts.

As regional dynamics evolve, Ankara and Erbil appear committed to fostering stability and shared prosperity, with the Kurdistan Region emerging as a key partner in Turkey’s reconciliation process.