Erbil, Kurdistan Region – The governors of Erbil in the Kurdistan Region and Iran’s Qazvin province met on Tuesday to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing bilateral relations and boosting economic cooperation.

The agreement, signed by Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw and Qazvin Governor Mohammad Nozari, seeks to strengthen trade, investment, and collaboration across multiple sectors, including industry, commerce, agriculture, tourism, technology, and health.

A statement from Khoshnaw’s office emphasized that the MoU will facilitate mutual investments, trade exchanges, and the exchange of delegations to explore further opportunities for partnership.

Khoshnaw highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Iran and the Kurdistan Region, stating, “Iran’s relationship with the Kurdistan Region is historical, religious, and cultural, and at all levels, the Kurdistan Region desires to advance these relations.”

Iran and the Kurdistan Region share robust economic relations, with numerous Iranian companies operating across various sectors in the Region. The two sides are also connected through several border crossings, facilitating trade and movement.

Iran remains a key trading partner for both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, particularly since 2003, when Iraq became a major market for Iranian goods.

In February, Iranian Consul General to Erbil Faramaz Asadi reaffirmed the strong ties between Tehran and Erbil, noting that relations have been “very strong and intertwined” since the establishment of the Islamic Republic in 1979.

The latest agreement signals a continued commitment to expanding cooperation between the two regions, fostering economic growth and mutual development.