Kurdistan Regional Government
Representation in Italy
On December 9, Minister of Foreign Affairs Mauro Conciatori, Central Director for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Countries, along with Councilor Alessandro Monti, Head of Office IX of the Directorate General for Political Affairs, and Councilor Carlo Batori, Head of Office VIII of the Directorate General for Political Affairs, received Minister Falah Mustafa Bakir, Head of the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq, and his delegation at the Farnesina. The delegation was accompanied by Dr. Rezan Kader, High Representative of the Kurdistan Regional Government in Italy.
During the discussions, Minister Falah Mustafa presented the Kurdistan Region as an oasis of peace and stability in the Middle East. The country is seeking to increase international relations as much as possible, and as a testament to this, several diplomatic missions are opening offices in Iraqi Kurdistan. Furthermore, Iraqi Kurdistan offers endless investment opportunities in various sectors, from oil and gas to agriculture. Erbil will be the Arab World Capital of Culture for 2014. There is a strong focus on culture, the development of the cultural exchange program, and the medical and healthcare sectors. Regarding domestic politics, the 2014 elections will be a unique opportunity to attempt to reach peace with the central government regarding power-sharing and the equitable distribution of resources.
The issue of humanitarian support for Syrian refugees in the autonomous Kurdistan Region was discussed between the parties. The Geneva Conference will be a unique opportunity to find a diplomatic solution to the Syrian crisis. In this regard, it will be necessary to consider the perspectives of each country involved in the crisis in order to reach a Gentlemen's Agreement.
Regarding relations with Turkey, Minister Falah emphasized the transition from a relationship of adversarial to one of complete cooperation in all areas, which has strengthened especially following the peace process led by Prime Minister Erdogan.
Minister Conciatori communicated to Minister Falah the Italian government's interest in strengthening its representation in Erbil and in guaranteeing its support. Minister Falah finally added that the Representation of the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq in Italy remains the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' point of reference for promoting political, diplomatic, commercial, and consular relations with Italy. Minister Falah also extended an invitation to Minister Emma Bonino to travel to Kurdistan, just as Minister Conciatori extended an invitation to President Barzani to make an official visit to Italy.