ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Wednesday met with the Emirati President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MbZ) to discuss bilateral ties. He further signed a landmark technology agreement with Abu Dhabi.

In a statement he posted on X, Barzani stated that the two leaders discussed regional developments, their shared vision for economic growth and stability, and their efforts to establish “deeper ties between the Kurdistan Region and the UAE.”

The meeting held on the sidelines of the 2025 World Governments Summit in Dubai, also saw Barzani and MbZ agree on “the need to enhance bilateral coordination and cooperation, and to consolidate the bonds of friendship between the Kurdistan Region and the [United Arab] Emirates in various fields,” according to the Kurdistan Region’s premier.

Later on the same day, Barzani signed a five-year technology deal with the UAE's Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi. Barzani stated that the agreement aims to “enhance our administrative, human, and governmental capabilities in the region, benefiting from the UAE’s pioneering experience in this field.”

Of note, Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerged as one of the key topics at this year’s summit which brought together leaders, policymakers, and experts to explore the future of governance and foster international cooperation.

The Kurdistan Region’s premier on Monday led a high-profile delegation to Dubai to attend the World Government’s Summit. The effort is part of Barzani’s “continued commitment” to reinforce the Region's position “as a key and reliable partner on the global stage,” read a statement by his office.