Erbil, Kurdistan Region – President Masoud Barzani met today with French Ambassador to Iraq Patrick Durel at Salahaddin Resort to discuss political developments, regional security, and strengthening bilateral ties.

The meeting, also attended by French Consul General in Erbil Yann Braem, focused on the latest political and security developments in Iraq and the wider region. Both sides emphasized the need to address threats to regional stability, including ongoing disputes between Erbil and Baghdad.

President Barzani and Ambassador Durel reviewed recent negotiations between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the Iraqi federal government, assessing progress and remaining challenges. They also discussed the upcoming Iraqi parliamentary elections in November 2025 and their potential impact on Iraq’s political landscape.

Strengthening relations between France and the Kurdistan Region was another key topic, with both sides expressing commitment to enhancing cooperation in various fields.