Barzani and French Foreign Minister Strengthen Strategic Ties in Paris Meeting
In a significant diplomatic engagement, President Masoud Barzani met with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot in Paris on Friday, with both leaders underscoring a shared commitment to deepen strategic cooperation in security, politics, and regional stability.
The meeting, held at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, served to reinforce the historic partnership between France and the Kurdistan Region amid a complex regional landscape.
The central theme of the discussions was France's unwavering support for the Kurdistan Region's security. Foreign Minister Barrot explicitly reiterated his government’s "continued commitment to supporting the Peshmerga and to ensuring security cooperation remains strong." This pledge highlights France's view of the Peshmerga as a vital partner in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
President Barzani expressed his appreciation for this support, noting that France's enduring solidarity has fortified Kurdistan during critical junctures, including the war against ISIS.
The high-level talks also served as a preparatory step for a major upcoming diplomatic event. According to a statement from the Barzani Headquarters, the meeting addressed the anticipated visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region later this year. The planning for this trip, expected to carry substantial diplomatic weight, indicates a shared desire to elevate bilateral relations to a new level.
Beyond bilateral ties, the leaders discussed pressing regional issues. They addressed the persistent threat posed by ISIS and emphasized the necessity of continued coordination to confront extremist groups in the region.
The political dynamics within Iraq were also a key agenda item. President Barzani stressed the importance of adhering to the Iraqi Constitution as the framework for resolving outstanding disputes between Erbil and Baghdad. The discussions also touched upon the broader Iraqi political process and the upcoming national elections.
The political talks were held just hours after a deeply symbolic ceremony where a Parisian street was renamed "Allée des Peshmergas" (Peshmerga Avenue) in honor of the Kurdish forces' sacrifices. While not part of the official meeting, this act of recognition formed a powerful backdrop, with Barrot later calling it "France’s eternal recognition of its Kurdish brothers-in-arms."
Il y aura désormais une allée des Peshmergas à Paris : reconnaissance éternelle de la France à ses frères d’armes kurdes dans le combat contre Daech. Avec Massoud Barzani, leur chef historique, nous avons évoqué le renforcement des liens entre la France, l’Irak et le Kurdistan,… pic.twitter.com/w85VqJanPi
— Jean-Noël Barrot (@jnbarrot) September 5, 2025
