Colonel Myles B. Caggins III, spokesperson for the Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan (APIKUR), praised Prime Minister Masrour Barzani’s recent visit to Washington as a milestone in strengthening the Kurdistan Region’s role in global energy markets and attracting U.S. investment in Iraq’s energy sector.

Speaking to Kurdistan 24 on the sidelines of a high-level energy conference in the U.S. capital, Caggins highlighted the strategic importance of Barzani’s meetings with top American officials.

“Today was a big day in Washington, D.C.,” Caggins said, referencing an event hosted by Al-Monitor where Barzani discussed Kurdistan’s energy significance. The gathering, attended by U.S. Secretary of Energy Christopher Wright, underscored the region’s growing influence.

“This is another sign of the importance of the Kurdistan Region in Washington,” Caggins noted, adding that such engagements reinforce Kurdistan’s reputation as a stable energy partner.

When asked if Barzani’s visit could spur more American energy investments, Caggins pointed to recent moves by APIKUR members. “Two of our member companies announced major investments in Kurdistan’s natural gas development,” he said.

He emphasized that Kurdistan’s gas resources could help power all of Iraq. “Electricity in Iraq should come from Iraq’s resources, including Kurdistan’s natural gas fields,” he stated.

Caggins cited strong endorsements from U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who called Kurdistan the “lynchpin” of U.S. Middle East policy. He also noted Secretary Wright’s remarks on the Trump administration’s focus on expanding energy cooperation rather than conflict.

On the stalled Iraq-Turkey Pipeline, Caggins stressed the need for renewed dialogue. “The U.S. has been working for over two years to reopen the pipeline,” he said, expressing hope for upcoming talks involving Baghdad, the KRG, and international oil companies.

Caggins concluded with optimism, stating that Barzani’s diplomacy and U.S. support signal a new era of strategic energy partnership. “This visit marks a pivotal step toward mutual economic benefits,” he said.