ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – President Masoud Barzani met with the newly appointed Consul General of the United Arab Emirates, Ahmed Hassan Ahmed Al-Shehhi, in Birmana on Sunday, with discussions centering on enhancing cooperation and addressing regional political matters.

The meeting underscored the ongoing commitment to strengthen the relationship between the Kurdistan Region and the UAE. Consul General Al-Shehhi commenced by delivering warm greetings from the Emirati leadership to President Barzani.

He extended congratulations on the successful execution of the recent electoral process in Iraq, voicing his hope that "the election results would serve the Iraqi people." Al-Shehhi also commended the "progress and prosperity" observed in the Kurdistan Region and confirmed the UAE's keen interest in expanding bilateral relations. Key sectors identified for enhanced collaboration included economy, trade, information technology, and agriculture.

President Barzani extended a warm welcome to the new Consul General, wishing him success in his new diplomatic role. He affirmed that "the people of Kurdistan always have a positive and friendly view towards the UAE" and expressed his full support for the continuation and deepening of ties between Erbil and Abu Dhabi.

Beyond bilateral relations, the meeting also served as a platform to exchange views on the latest political developments and situations in Iraq and the wider region.