Kurdistan Region preserves stability, unique identity amid regional turmoil: Top diplomat

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The Kurdistan Region remains secure and has preserved its distinct identity despite escalating tensions across the broader Middle East, Safeen Dizayee, head of the Department of Foreign Relations in the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), told Rudaw on Friday evening.

“Unfortunately, we are witnessing tension and instability across the region. It is true that the Kurdistan Region is geographically part of this area, but it has maintained its unique characteristics,” Dizayee said.

Regional tensions have intensified as the United States deploys a significant fleet of warships and fighter jets amid a standoff with Iran over its nuclear program. While both Washington and Tehran have repeatedly stated their preference for a diplomatic resolution, Oman-mediated negotiations have yet to yield an agreement.

Dizayee made the remarks while attending a nighttime Ramadan festival in downtown Erbil, accompanied by Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw and representatives from several diplomatic missions based in the Kurdistan Region’s capital.

“As you can see this evening, a large number of diplomatic representatives have joined the governor and me to tour the city center and express their appreciation for the stability here,” he said.

He emphasized that the Kurdistan Region remains safe and secure.

“There should be no concerns. The Asayesh security forces and the Peshmarga play a vital role in maintaining this stability,” Dizayee added. “We hope regional tensions will come to an end,” he said.

Governor Omed Khoshnaw echoed those sentiments, noting the international community’s interest in Erbil’s continued peace and stability.

“What is pleasing to us is that all diplomatic missions here value the peace and stability of Erbil,” Khoshnaw said.

The governor went on to say that “one of the goals of the diplomatic envoys present is to strengthen cooperation and further develop the Kurdistan Region’s economic and tourism sectors.”

Diplomatic missions highlight security and vibrancy

A group of consuls and foreign representatives spent the Ramadan evening touring Erbil’s central bazaar, praising the city’s security, lively atmosphere, and economic activity.

Among those attending were Lukas Gjuric, Consul General of the Czech Republic; Adriaan IJsselstein, Consul General of the Netherlands; and Brijesh Kumar, India’s Consul General.

“I am very impressed by the colorful environment and the atmosphere. I truly love it,” Gjuric said. “For me, this reflects how friendly and welcoming Kurdistan has been during my three months here as consul general. I would like to thank the Kurdish people.”

 

IJsselstein described the visit as enjoyable and well organized.

“It was wonderful to visit the bazaar tonight. I feel very safe walking around, enjoying good tea and food,” he said.

 

Kumar said he was surprised by Erbil’s vibrant nightlife.

“I did not expect the nightlife in Erbil to be so dynamic. There are so many people on the streets and many shops open,” he said, adding that he was impressed by the city’s energy.

 

More than 40 foreign consulates, consular offices, and international organizations are based in the Kurdistan Region, most of them in Erbil. These missions represent countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Iran, and Turkey.