Prime Minister Masrour Barzani of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) laid the foundation stone for the Science Park of the Kurdistan Innovation Institute (KII) in a special ceremony held in Erbil on Wednesday.

In his speech, Prime Minister Barzani emphasized that the project represents a major step toward transforming Kurdistan into a regional center for innovation, research, and technological development.

“We want Kurdistan to be a place where our youth can turn their ideas into projects right here. This is a promise we had previously made to our youth, and now it is becoming a reality,” the Prime Minister stated.
He recalled that three years ago, the Kurdistan Innovation Institute was established as a dedicated platform for fostering creativity and innovation. As part of that vision, the creation of a science park was promised to provide innovators with access to laboratories, workshops, and facilities where they could test, develop, and implement their ideas.

Prime Minister Barzani expressed his hope that the new Science Park would become “an important scientific and academic hub for gathering innovators, talents, and specialists not only from Kurdistan but from the entire region.” He added that the initiative aims to strengthen the Region’s scientific infrastructure, stimulate economic growth, and generate diverse employment opportunities for young people.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that many talented youth in Kurdistan and abroad have lacked the necessary space and opportunities to develop their ideas locally. He called on innovators from both inside and outside the Region to use the new park as a center for research and creativity.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting innovation, Barzani noted,

“Every innovative idea needs a suitable environment and support to come to fruition, grow further, and serve the people. The Kurdistan Regional Government reiterates its full support for innovation, creative work, and scientific advancement.”
The Prime Minister extended his appreciation to the Swedish company Bean Guard, which designed the Science Park, praising the company’s modern and creative architectural vision.

He also clarified that while the project is supported by the KRG through land allocation, it is being implemented by the private sector, ensuring that its benefits will reach all people of Kurdistan.

“This time, the investment is in the minds and ideas of our youth, who are the greatest asset of our country,” Barzani said, expressing optimism that the project would play a vital role in the Region’s future development.
The ceremony concluded with the Prime Minister extending his gratitude to the engineers, designers, and attendees, reaffirming his vision for a more innovative and prosperous Kurdistan.