A historic trip that strengthens Kurdistan’s global relations and enhances Its diplomatic influence
The President of the Kurdistan Region’s visit to France was highly significant. During his trip, he met with global leaders and conveyed a message of peace and coexistence. Politicians in Kurdistan have discussed the importance of this visit.
On December 7, 2024, Mr. Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Region, was officially invited by French President Emmanuel Macron. Barzani attended the reopening ceremony of the historic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, alongside several world leaders.
This invitation and Barzani’s participation in the ceremony highlight the strong friendship between France and the Kurdistan Region, underscoring the region’s role in regional and international diplomacy.
In addition to diplomatic relations, France and the Kurdistan Region collaborate in cultural areas. The Kurdistan Region works closely with French entities in cultural and archaeological projects.
Regarding his participation in the ceremony, Barzani posted on X (formerly Twitter): “I participated in the reopening ceremony of the famous Notre Dame Cathedral with President Macron and other leaders. This historic event demonstrates our commitment to preserving our shared human heritage. I congratulate my friend President Macron on this remarkable achievement.”
After the ceremony, Barzani attended an evening reception at the Élysée Palace, hosted by President Macron for the event’s guests and participants.
Lawyer Sheikh Mohammed Basri told the Kurdish Globe: “The Kurdistan Region President’s visit to France was very important. His participation in such a grand event with world leaders shows that the Kurdistan Region has unique qualities. The fact that among hundreds of regions, only the Kurdistan Region was invited is significant. The presence of leaders like Trump, President Macron, and Elon Musk made this a major achievement for the Kurdistan Region.”
He continued: “The Kurdistan Region is an exemplary place for coexistence. In his message during the cathedral’s reopening, President Barzani stated, ‘Peace and dialogue are the best solutions for all Middle Eastern and global issues. Everyone must coexist.'”
Barzani also met with the elected President of the United States, the President of Germany, and leaders from Italy, Austria, Bulgaria, Morocco, and many other countries.
Nechirvan Barzani was invited by President Emmanuel Macron, along with 50 heads of state, to attend the historic reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. This event turned Paris into a political hub, gathering global leaders.
The Kurdistan Region Presidency stated that Barzani’s invitation and participation symbolize the strong friendship between France and the Kurdistan Region, highlighting its diplomatic significance.
After attending the ceremony, Barzani remarked, “I congratulate my friend President Macron on this great achievement.”
The Notre Dame Cathedral, which was damaged by a fire in 2019, was reopened after five years of restoration work.