Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has inaugurated the Golden Global Development commercial project and laid the cornerstone for the Gali Zakho tourism project, highlighting the government’s efforts to diversify the regional economy and expand private-sector investment.
During the inauguration of Golden Global Development in the Zakho Autonomous Administration, Barzani toured the project’s facilities and inspected vehicles imported into the Kurdistan Region by the company.
In his speech, the prime minister stressed the importance of developing the industrial sector, saying it could create jobs, increase revenues, and strengthen the Kurdistan Region’s economy.
Barzani said economic diversification and industrial development have been central priorities of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). He also praised the Zakho administration for supporting industrial investment and providing facilities for businesses.
Barzani highlighted the Kurdistan Region’s strategic location, which connects markets across the Middle East. He said this position could help the Region become a regional economic hub and attract more domestic and foreign investors.
He also encouraged Kurdish investors to invest locally and establish joint ventures with foreign companies, noting that such partnerships could support economic growth and introduce modern technologies and practices to the industrial sector.
Later, at a separate ceremony in Zakho, Barzani laid the cornerstone for the Gali Zakho (Zakho Valley) tourism project.
He said tourism development has been an important part of the KRG cabinet’s agenda, particularly as the government seeks to diversify revenue sources and create employment opportunities. He added that the Kurdistan Region’s natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and religious sites offer significant potential for tourism investment.
Barzani specifically highlighted the Badinan area, describing its scenic destinations as an important resource for developing tourism and generating income for the Region. He said tourism projects could create employment opportunities for local residents, particularly young people.
The prime minister also referred to the damage caused to Kurdistan’s environment and villages in previous decades. He noted that insecurity and continued conflict in some border areas had prevented the full reconstruction of certain communities.
He expressed hope that peace and stability would return to those areas, allowing residents to rebuild their communities and enabling them to benefit from future tourism projects.
The two projects reflect the KRG’s stated focus on expanding industrial activity, attracting private investment, and developing tourism as part of broader efforts to diversify the Kurdistan Region’s economy.
