Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani has arrived in Tehran for a highly significant visit, described as “one of the most important” in the history of relations between the Kurdistan Region and Iran by the Kurdistan Regional Government’s representative in Iran, Nazim Dabbagh.
Accompanied by KRG’s Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed, Chief of Staff Fawzi Hariri, and other senior officials, President Barzani is scheduled to meet with Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Ebrahim Raisi, and parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
Despite recent strains in the relationship due to cross-border attacks and missile strikes, both sides have shown a willingness to work together to resolve issues. The visit is seen as a crucial opportunity to rebuild trust between Erbil and Tehran, which has been impacted by regional conflicts and international tensions.Ardeshir Pashang, an international relations researcher, believes that strengthening ties between the Kurdistan Region and Iran can bring political, security, and economic benefits to both parties.
The visit is expected to foster stability, resilience, and growth in the region, contributing to the overall improvement of relations between Erbil and Tehran . President Barzani’s visit marks a significant step in enhancing diplomatic relations and fostering mutual cooperation between the Kurdistan Region and Iran.
President Nechirvan Barzani visit and trade ties between Erbil and Tehran
The Kurdistan Region’s Importers and Exporters Union reported that Iran is the region’s second-largest trading partner, with an annual trade turnover of approximately $6 billion, making it a key economic ally. Both sides share multiple official and semi-official border crossings, facilitating significant trade exchanges.
In 2023, over 2,000 business licenses were issued, with over 1,000 going to Iranian entrepreneurs. This demonstrates the strengthening economic cooperation between the Kurdistan Region and Iran. Additionally, Iranian companies and factories have been granted licenses to operate in the region, with 360 companies and 135 factories currently in operation.
Efforts to enhance trade volume and economic collaboration were highlighted during a trade exchange conference, indicating a strong commitment to further developing trade relations between the Kurdistan Region and Iran.
