Washington, DC, USA (us.gov.krd) - The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Representative to the United States, Ms. Treefa Aziz, strengthened U.S.-Kurdistan relations during high-level Senate meetings in Washington, DC, on December 14, 2023.

Representative Aziz discussed recent developments in the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and the broader area with Dan Adelstein, National Security Policy Advisor to Senator Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota). In light of recent tensions in the Middle East, the discussion focused on regional security, evolving political dynamics, and Erbil-Baghdad relations.

As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), Senator Rounds plays a central role in overseeing military and defense policies. The SASC is responsible for approving the annual defense budget, shaping legislation on military matters, and confirming high-level military appointments. Moreover, the committee conducts oversight of the Department of Defense's operations, ensuring efficiency and legality, while addressing national security strategy, arms control, and potential military base closures.

The KRG Representative also met with Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), a prominent member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and a long-time friend of the Kurdish people. Throughout his career, Senator Van Hollen has advocated for Kurdish issues in the US Congress. He introduced a resolution commemorating Operation Provide Comfort in October 2021, reiterating the partnership between the U.S. and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Through Operation Provide Comfort, the United States provided key humanitarian relief and enforced a no-fly zone to protect the citizens of Iraqi Kurdistan from the Saddam Hussein regime. That effort laid the groundwork for the establishment of the Kurdistan Regional Government and its continued success.

Representative Aziz’s advocacy in Congress exemplifies the robust relationship between the KRG and Members of Congress. These engagements are crucial to promoting regional stability and addressing critical areas of concern and interest. Her visit plays a significant role in strengthening the ties between the United States and the Kurdistan Region.