Sema
Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani said he had a constructive meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, highlighting Washington’s continued support for the Kurdish people and backing for ongoing energy cooperation.
Speaking at a press conference following the meeting, PM Barzani said the talks covered a wide range of regional and bilateral issues. “We are very pleased to see strong support from the United States for the people of Kurdistan and for the contracts we believe serve the best interests of both Kurdistan and Iraq,” he said.
Prime Minister Barzani also said he invited Secretary Rubio to visit the Kurdistan Region.
The meeting comes during PM Barzani’s official visit to the United States, where he is holding high-level talks with members of the Trump administration and US lawmakers to discuss security cooperation, economic reforms, and the KRG’s ongoing disputes with Baghdad over budget entitlements and oil revenues. His visit also aims to boost investor confidence and promote international partnerships, particularly in the energy sector.
Regarding tensions with Baghdad over the KRG’s contracts with two American companies, PM Barzani expressed hope for constructive dialogue. “I hope and believe that the views of Baghdad officials reflect the interests of the Iraqi people. The more flexibility they demonstrate, the more it will become clear that our efforts benefit everyone,” he said.
Prime Minister Barzani’s trip marks a continuation of the Kurdistan Region’s efforts to deepen its relations with Washington amid ongoing political challenges at home, including delayed parliamentary elections and the stalled formation of a new government.