KRG prime minister, says young innovators are the Kurdistan Region’s greatest asset and expresses optimism about a more stable future
Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani inaugurated the HITEX 2026 International Technology Exhibition in Erbil, highlighting the role of young innovators in the region’s development and expressing confidence in its future.
During his visit, Barzani toured the exhibition halls and reviewed innovations presented by young people and companies from the Kurdistan Region and abroad.
Speaking to the media, Barzani praised the participants for their creativity and achievements, saying their work offered a promising outlook for Kurdistan’s future.
“I am glad to see that the future of Kurdistan will be in the hands of such individuals,” he said, adding that learning about their innovations, achievements and ideas was a source of pride.
The prime minister emphasized that encouraging young people to develop new ideas and contribute to society was among the region’s most important achievements. He said the Kurdistan Region’s greatest asset was not its underground resources but its people, particularly its young generation.
He welcomed the growing interest among young people in innovation and entrepreneurship, describing their willingness to create new things and contribute to the advancement of their society as a source of pride and optimism.
Coalition withdrawal and regional security
Addressing the withdrawal of Coalition forces, Barzani said their departure had been expected following the conclusion of their mission to fight the Islamic State (ISIS).
He stressed, however, that the withdrawal did not mean an end to relations between Coalition countries, Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
Barzani noted that Iraqi security forces and the Peshmerga had carried out most of the ground fighting during the war against ISIS. He said both forces had since developed their capabilities, adding that the Peshmerga were prepared to confront threats facing Iraq, particularly the Kurdistan Region.
He said he did not expect the Coalition’s departure to create a security vacuum but emphasized the need to strengthen air defense capabilities, particularly systems designed to counter drone attacks.
“We are in continuous dialogue with both the federal government and our allies to secure air defense systems,” Barzani said, describing this assistance as an important priority.
Optimism about Kurdistan’s future
Barzani also expressed optimism about the Kurdistan Region’s political and economic future, pointing to improving relations with the federal government in Baghdad.
He said the positive relationship was helping move longstanding disputes and unresolved issues toward solutions.
“We are very optimistic about the future of our country,” he said, adding that cooperation with Baghdad was encouraging progress on outstanding issues.
Concluding his remarks, Barzani expressed hope for a more prosperous and secure future for the Kurdistan Region.
“God willing, a brighter, better, and more stable future awaits us,” he said.