The PM of Kurdistan Region utilized the 55th World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos as a platform to promote regional stability, strengthen international ties, and attract foreign investment. Engaging with global leaders and investors, the Prime Minister emphasized the Kurdistan Region’s potential in fostering economic development and its critical role in addressing Middle Eastern challenges. This year’s forum, themed around artificial intelligence and economic resilience, showcased Kurdistan’s growing international presence.
Key Discussions with Global Leaders
The KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani met with prominent leaders on the sidelines of the WEF, focusing on diplomacy, economic partnerships, and regional stability:
•Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General: Discussions addressed Iraq’s internal challenges, constitutional rights of the Kurdistan Region, the Gaza ceasefire, and Syria’s stability. The Prime Minister praised UNAMI’s role in fostering peace between Erbil and Baghdad.
•Belgium and the Czech Republic: Meetings with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky centered on enhancing trade and investment ties.
•Middle Eastern Engagements: He discussed economic partnerships with Bahraini, Saudi, and UAE delegations and emphasized strengthening ties with Azerbaijan and France.
•Dutch Collaboration: Talks with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof focused on bilateral cooperation.
These discussions reflect the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) strategy to position the Kurdistan Region as a regional stabilizer and economic hub.
Emphasis on Kurdish Investment
Hemin Lihony, head of the Initiatives and Strategic Communications Office, highlighted that this year’s forum saw increased participation from Kurdish investors. A delegation of leading businesses, including Hemn Group, Kar Group, Empire World, and others, represented the Kurdistan Region at the Kurdistan House.
The forum’s agenda, which included the impact of artificial intelligence on global economies, provided a venue for Kurdish businesses to engage with international firms. Kurdistan House focused on advancing investment opportunities, economic growth, and AI-driven innovation to align the region’s development with global trends.
Progress on Financial Entitlements
The Prime Minister provided updates on the KRG delegation’s recent negotiations in Baghdad, aimed at securing financial entitlements for the Kurdistan Region. He thanked Kurdish members of parliament and Iraqi officials for their support and expressed optimism about resolving disputes over financial allocations.
He emphasized the importance of diversifying the economy, reducing dependence on government salaries, and enhancing the private sector’s role in economic development. The Prime Minister encouraged partnerships with international investors to strengthen infrastructure and attract foreign investment.
The World Economic Forum 2025
The 55th World Economic Forum in Davos focused on global challenges, including artificial intelligence, sustainability, and economic inequality. Bringing together world leaders, policymakers, and industry experts, the forum highlighted the importance of collaboration between governments and private enterprises to drive innovation and address geopolitical tensions.
For the Kurdistan Region, the WEF served as a key opportunity to promote its economic and geopolitical significance. The establishment of Kurdistan House reinforced the region’s commitment to engaging with international stakeholders and advancing its role in global economic and political affairs.
