Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, met with Akira Endo, the newly appointed Japanese Ambassador to Iraq, to discuss enhancing bilateral relations and other shared concerns. The meeting, attended by Arakawa Mikihiro, Japan’s Consul General in the Kurdistan Region, also marked the end of Arakawa’s mission. Talabani expressed gratitude for Japan’s continued support, including the Halabja water project, the Sulaymaniyah Museum, and efforts to repatriate historical artifacts. He urged further collaboration, particularly in advancing youth technological and entrepreneurial skills.
Engagement with the Iraqi Diaspora in the U.S.
A day earlier, Talabani met with an Iraqi Diaspora delegation from the United States, led by Martin Manna, President of the Chaldean-American Chamber of Commerce. Discussions focused on strengthening economic ties and supporting Christian communities in Kurdistan and Iraq. The delegation commended the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) for its unwavering support of the Christian community, particularly the Chaldeans.
Talabani reaffirmed Kurdistan’s commitment to peaceful coexistence among all communities and acknowledged the historical contributions of Christians in the region. The talks also covered investment opportunities, with Talabani expressing readiness to facilitate investments from the Iraqi Diaspora in the Kurdistan Region. Additionally, the challenges of Mosul’s reconstruction were addressed, with Talabani emphasizing Kurdistan’s willingness to cooperate with the federal government and investors in rebuilding the city.
Reaffirming Support for West Kurdistan
On the same day, Talabani also received Sheikh Murshid al-Khaznawi, reiterating Kurdistan’s support for West Kurdistan (Rojava). He praised Sheikh Murshid and his late father, Sheikh Mashouq al-Khaznawi, for their dedication to the Kurdish cause. In a social media post, Talabani described Sheikh Mashouq as a martyr for his nation and commended Sheikh Murshid’s ongoing efforts to promote Kurdish unity.
Talabani emphasized that the Kurdistan Region remains committed to supporting the Kurdish people in Rojava and will continue working towards Kurdish solidarity. He stressed the importance of listening to and supporting figures like Sheikh Murshid, who advocate for unity among Kurds across different regions.
These meetings highlight the Kurdistan Region’s proactive engagement in diplomacy, economic development, and regional solidarity, reinforcing its role as a key player in fostering cooperation across multiple spheres.
