Erbil, September 11, 2026 – High-level discussions took place in Erbil yesterday, focusing on strengthening cooperation between Armenia and Iraqi Kurdistan across various sectors. Levon Petrosyan, Head of the Middle East and Africa Department at the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, met with Safin Dizayee, Head of the Department of Foreign Relations of Iraqi Kurdistan.
Key Areas of Discussion: Trade, Culture, and Technology
The meeting centered on strategies for developing trade and economic ties, with a particular emphasis on boosting Armenian exports to Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region. Both parties explored avenues for intensifying bilateral contacts and deepening cooperation in cultural exchange, tourism, technology, and education.
Mr. Petrosyan’s visit to Erbil also included a series of other significant meetings aimed at fostering closer relations. He held discussions with Peshawa Muhammad, Advisor to the Deputy Prime Minister of Iraqi Kurdistan for Foreign Affairs and Head of the Diplomatic Relations Department at the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office. Further engagements included meetings with Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman, Senior Advisor to the Prime Minister of Iraqi Kurdistan for Foreign Affairs, and Sarwar Kamal Hawari, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry of Iraqi Kurdistan.
Expanding Economic Agenda and Future Prospects
During these meetings, officials delved into topics related to expanding the trade and economic agenda and further deepening cooperation. The discussions highlighted a mutual desire to identify new opportunities for collaboration that would benefit both Armenia and Iraqi Kurdistan.
The Armenian delegation underscored the importance of diversifying economic partnerships and exploring new markets for Armenian goods and services. The Iraqi Kurdistan officials expressed their readiness to facilitate such initiatives, recognizing the potential for mutual growth and development.
Context of Broader Regional Engagements
This visit comes amidst a period of active diplomatic engagement for Armenia in the region. Recent developments include discussions on activating Armenia-Bulgaria ties, and ongoing efforts to address regional security and economic challenges.
The emphasis on trade and economic cooperation aligns with Armenia’s broader strategy to strengthen its international economic presence and foster robust relationships with key regional partners. The cultural and educational exchanges discussed are also seen as vital for building long-term ties and mutual understanding between the two entities.
Future Outlook for Armenia-Iraqi Kurdistan Relations
Both sides expressed optimism regarding the future of their cooperation. The meetings are expected to pave the way for concrete initiatives and agreements that will translate the discussed prospects into tangible outcomes. Further exchanges and working group meetings are anticipated to follow up on the commitments made during this visit.
The Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade emphasized its commitment to fostering strong and multifaceted relations with Iraqi Kurdistan, recognizing its strategic importance in the Middle East.
Source: https://verelq.am/hy/node/177439
