President Nechirvan Barzani received French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot along with his accompanying delegation on Thursday evening.

Their discussions focused on the political landscape in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, the circumstances of the Kurds and other communities in Syria, the agreement between the Syrian government and the SDF, the threat posed by ISIS, and the latest regional developments.

The President conveyed his gratitude for France’s ongoing support to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region and thanked President Macron for his contributions to advocating for the rights of the Kurds in a unified Syria, as well as his efforts in facilitating a ceasefire agreement between the Syrian government and the SDF.

The French Foreign Minister emphasized his country’s continued commitment to supporting Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, backing the implementation of the agreement between the Syrian government and the SDF, and reaffirmed the necessity of ensuring the rights of the Kurds and other communities within a unified Syria.

In another aspect of the discussion, both sides acknowledged that ISIS remains a significant threat to regional security. They highlighted the critical need to continue the international coalition’s mission against ISIS. Concerning the regional situation, they advocated for peaceful resolutions and efforts to prevent the escalation of conflict.

Following the meeting, President Nechirvan Barzani and the Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot held a press conference.

President Nechirvan Barzani’s remarks:

I was truly delighted to host French Foreign Minister Mr. Jean-Noël Barrot in Erbil this evening. I warmly welcome you once again.

In our discussions, we focused on enhancing France’s relations with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, as well as broadening our strategic partnership for both the present and the future. We also addressed the political landscape in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

We expressed our gratitude to France for its enduring friendship and ongoing support for Iraq, particularly for the people of Kurdistan. I wish to convey my appreciation to President Macron for his steadfast support for the people of Kurdistan and their constitutional rights. The people of Kurdistan will always remember this.

We appreciate France’s concern, loyalty, and the significant role President Macron played in advocating for a ceasefire in Syria and fostering dialogue between Damascus and the SDF. Additionally, we acknowledge their support for the constitutional rights of the Kurds and other communities in Syria.

We align with France in recognizing the importance of Syria’s stability. A unified Syria that includes the Kurds and all communities while safeguarding the rights of everyone is essential. We emphasized the necessity of implementing the agreement between Damascus and the SDF with international oversight.

We concurred with the Minister that ISIS continues to pose a genuine threat to regional peace and stability. Thus, the mission of the international coalition against ISIS, as well as the fight against terrorism and extremism, must continue.

We underscored the significance of upholding peace and stability and preventing any escalation of tensions in the region. It is crucial that all efforts are directed toward resolving conflicts through peaceful dialogue and diplomatic means.

Mr. Minister, it is a pleasure to welcome you once again.

Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot’s remarks:

I sincerely appreciate your warm welcome, dear Mr. President Nechirvan, here in Erbil, Kurdistan, which holds special significance for France.

It is well known to everyone present the depth of our historical connections. It is common knowledge that France spearheaded the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 688, which established a no-fly zone enforced by French pilots, thereby halting the genocide of Kurds perpetrated by Saddam Hussein and facilitating the path toward Kurdistan’s autonomy.

We all recall the united efforts of the French armed forces alongside the valiant Peshmergas, recently commemorated in Paris, as well as the determination of the Syrian Democratic Forces in their fight against ISIS at the gates of Erbil and Kobanê.

President Hollande was the first head of state to visit Erbil, offering his condolences to our brothers and sisters. Everyone recalls the courage and sacrifice of the heroic women who valiantly confronted the barbarians to protect their homeland, Kurdistan.

In times of hardship, France and Kurdistan have consistently shared a common destiny. Today, as tensions in Syria and Iran shake the Middle East, we unite to demonstrate our strong collaboration and collective efforts.

I wish to express my gratitude to the authorities of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq for their contributions over the past few weeks.

Firstly, regarding Syria, Mr. President, your personal involvement was crucial in de-escalating tensions between Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces.

As France continues its mediation efforts, with the direct engagement of the French President, I extend my appreciation for the effective coordination we have witnessed in recent weeks, which has prevented bloodshed, resulted in a ceasefire, and enabled the signing of the December 29 agreement.

An agreement that concludes the war must be fully implemented to ensure political and security guarantees for the integration of the Kurds into a unified Syria. Additionally, a presidential decree recognizing their linguistic, cultural, and educational rights must be fully enacted.

Recognizing the identity of the Kurds is essential for Syria’s recovery, similar to the situation in Iraq. We will continue to support the implementation of this agreement and the political transition, aiming to establish a unified, sovereign, and peaceful Syria that respects all its communities. The future of the Kurds of Syria should not be confined to their own region; they must participate in Syrian political life just as they do in Iraq.

Regarding Iran, I have unequivocally denounced the state’s acts of violence toward its citizens. We are aware of the troubling internal circumstances and the potential for heightened regional strife. We understand the threats that the Kurdistan Region may face should an unprovoked conflict arise.

We have witnessed this before, and we cannot accept or yield to it. I have assured President Nechirvan Barzani that France will remain dedicated to supporting the Kurds in maintaining security and stability in the region, which we recognize is interconnected with our own security.

My visit also provided an opportunity to engage with French troops stationed in Iraq, particularly those involved in the international coalition against ISIS. These forces are currently reorganizing to address the evolving threat of terrorism, which we remain firmly committed to combating together, as we have for many years.

I would like to express my gratitude once again to our Kurdish friends for their trust in us and their outstanding coordination.

It is important to note that our relationship extends beyond this and encompasses various sectors, including the economy, culture, migration, and the environment, such as water management initiatives aimed at benefiting the people of Kurdistan. We will continue to strengthen this collaboration.

I wish to extend my appreciation to the authorities of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq for their decision last night to endorse the strengthening of the French diplomatic status in Erbil. This is a commendable step and demonstrates the strength of our unbreakable bond.

In conclusion, I would like to highlight the political developments in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. Given the significant challenges the region and the country are currently facing, it is essential for the main political parties of Kurdistan to engage in constructive dialogue for the benefit of all. Additionally, it is crucial to maintain the policy of diversity and development within Iraq.

Mr. President, I will continue my visit tomorrow and look forward to meeting with Mr. Masoud Barzani, where we will address the many challenges in the region and explore possible solutions.

This meeting will also serve as an opportunity to reaffirm our enduring solidarity and friendship. As early as 1967, Mustafa Barzani wrote to General De Gaulle: “Understand that for us, a marginalized and endangered people, suffering from a prolonged and brutal conflict, you are the sole international entity capable of offering us the principles for a fair and peaceful resolution.”

Mr. President, dear Nechirvan, in honor of our shared history, France will always support the People of Kurdistan in their quest for rights.

Thank you once more for your warm welcome.