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Pezeshkian and Barzani Pledge Deeper Iran-Kurdistan Cooperation — AI-generated representative image. A formal diplomatic meeting between Iranian and Kurdistan Region officials, reflecting discussions on bilateral cooperation.

Editorial Team

Leaders commit to expanded trade and security ties as Barzani vows no threats to Iranian sovereignty

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met with Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, with both sides committing to expanded economic and commercial cooperation. During the meeting, Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran was fully prepared to advance ties across all sectors, particularly trade, while Barzani reaffirmed that the Kurdistan Region would not permit its territory to be used for any action threatening Iran's security or sovereignty.

The talks carry significant weight amid ongoing regional tensions, as Iran faces international sanctions and external pressure. The meeting signals a mutual interest in deepening economic integration between Iran and the semi-autonomous Iraqi Kurdistan Region, which shares a long border and deep commercial ties with the Islamic Republic. It also underscores Barzani's commitment to maintaining the region as a stable neighbor rather than a staging ground for hostilities.

Commitments Made During the Meeting

Pezeshkian called for making greater use of the two sides' shared capacities and opportunities to strengthen relations across all fields, with particular emphasis on economic and commercial cooperation. He stressed that Iran was fully prepared to advance joint activities, especially in trade and economic sectors.

Barzani expressed the Kurdistan Region's readiness to expand economic and trade relations with Iran, stressing the importance of using existing capacities to increase exchanges and strengthen cooperation. He described Iran as a longstanding supporter of the Kurdistan Region and said its assistance during difficult periods would not be forgotten.

On security matters, Barzani reaffirmed that the Kurdistan Region would not allow its territory to be used for any action threatening Iran's security or sovereignty. He also emphasized the need for lasting peace and stability in the region.

Regional Tensions and Economic Pressure

Pezeshkian highlighted the friendly ties between the two sides and said efforts to isolate Iran economically would not succeed, given the country's close relations with neighboring communities, including the people of the Kurdistan Region. He said sanctions and external pressure had not weakened the Iranian nation's determination, adding that the country had strengthened its resilience and would overcome challenges by relying on domestic capabilities and public support.

The president criticized the United States and Israel over their military aggression against Iran, describing the attacks and the assassination of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution and schoolchildren as unlawful and unjustifiable under international law and humanitarian principles. He said adversaries were seeking to exert economic pressure on Iranians after failing to achieve their objectives militarily, including by restricting routes used to supply essential goods, food and medicine.

Barzani said that war against Iran would only have made the regional situation more complicated without achieving its architects' objectives. He also praised the resilience of the Iranian people and armed forces, as well as Pezeshkian's management of the country during wartime.

Humanitarian Concerns and Official Statements

Pezeshkian expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, particularly the hardships facing displaced Palestinians amid heavy rainfall, flooding and inadequate living conditions. His remarks reflected Iran's broader engagement with regional humanitarian crises during the discussions.

According to the website of the president's office, Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran's close relations with neighboring communities, including the people of the Kurdistan Region, would prevent economic isolation efforts from succeeding. The statements from both leaders underscored a shared interest in regional stability and continued economic engagement.

What Comes Next

Both sides signaled a commitment to translating the meeting's outcomes into practical cooperation, with economic and trade expansion identified as the priority areas. Further details on specific agreements or joint initiatives have not yet been officially announced, and additional information is awaited regarding the implementation of the commitments discussed.