Erbil participates in the Governors and Mayors Conference for Peace and Cooperation in the Middle East and North Africa
The Governor of Erbil has shared details of his participation in the recent conference of governors and city mayors from Middle Eastern and North African countries, highlighting the event’s goals and outcomes.
On December 13, 2024, the Governors and Mayors Conference for Peace and Cooperation in the Middle East and North Africa was held in Istanbul, Turkey. Representing the Kurdistan Region, Umid Khoshnaw, the Governor of Erbil, emphasized the importance of strengthening diplomatic relations between cities as a means of fostering closer ties between the peoples and governments of the region.
Governor Khoshnaw noted that both the Erbil and Baghdad Governorates from Iraq participated in the conference, which focused on promoting peace and fostering collaborative relations among cities in the Middle East and North Africa.
Speaking at a press conference, he elaborated: “The Kurdistan Region, guided by President Barzani’s vision, remains committed to playing a peaceful role in the region and maintaining constructive relations with neighboring countries. We value every step and initiative aimed at fostering coexistence and regional stability.”
He highlighted that discussions at the conference also touched on Erbil’s development, its commitment to peace, and its role in promoting coexistence within the region.
Governor Khoshnaw further underlined the significance of the Kurdistan Region’s strong ties with Turkey, which extend to the governorate level. He stated: “The relationship between Erbil and Turkey is crucial and mutually beneficial, particularly in the commercial sector. Similarly, Turkey values its relations with the Kurdistan Region and Erbil. In this context, Ekrem İmamoğlu, the Mayor of Istanbul, has expressed his intention to visit Erbil soon, which will further strengthen these ties.”
He also emphasized the vital role cities play in the peace process, noting that the President and Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region fully support initiatives to strengthen inter-city relations in the region.
The conference, attended by 15 governors and mayors from 10 countries, provided Erbil with an opportunity to showcase its active role and preparedness as a key participant in regional cooperation. Governor Khoshnaw affirmed Erbil’s ongoing commitment to peacebuilding and fostering meaningful connections between cities in the Middle East and North Africa.