Washington DC, USA (us.gov.krd) – The Kurdistan Regional Government's (KRG) Head of the Department of Foreign Relations, Minister Safeen Dizayee, engaged in a series of high-level meetings with influential members of the United States Congress from July 17 to July 25.  Minister Dizayee, having last visited Washington in 2019, embarked on a mission to reinforce the already strong bilateral relations between the United States and the Kurdistan Region, while also introducing the new KRG Representative to the United States, Ms. Treefa Aziz.

Building Bridges and Addressing Critical Issues

During this pivotal visit, Minister Dizayee held more than 20 meetings with prominent Senators, including Senators Lindsey Graham, Chris Van Hollen, and Jim Risch, and key Congressmen such as Dean Phillips and Mike Waltz. Additionally, he met with Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Mike McCaul and Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee Mark Green. These crucial engagements underscored the shared commitment to tackle pressing regional challenges and promote lasting stability.

Seeking Congressional Assistance on Vital Matters

Throughout the discussions, Minister Dizayee addressed a wide array of critical issues. These included finding solutions to Erbil-Baghdad issues concerning the federal budget law and resumption of oil export from the KRG region. Additionally, the meetings sought support in countering threats to regional stability and sovereignty, both internally and externally, while ensuring the protection of Kurdistan's critical infrastructure. Moreover, the delegation sought humanitarian assistance for internally displaced people and Syrian refugees in the region, highlighting the Kurdistan Region's continued dedication to providing a haven for ethnic and religious minorities.

A Strong Alliance Against Terrorism and for Democratic Values

The Kurdish Peshmerga forces have played an instrumental role in combatting terrorism, particularly the ISIS threat. Congress expressed admiration for the bravery and effectiveness of the Peshmerga in this regard, further cementing the strategic alliance between the United States and the Kurdistan Region. The partnership between the two nations is founded on shared values of democracy, freedom, and countering regional security threats.

Congress: Proud Friends and Allies of Kurdistan

The United States Congress considers the Kurdistan Region, the Peshmerga forces, and the Kurdish people as cherished friends and crucial strategic allies in the Middle East. The Kurdistan Region’s dedication to upholding democratic values and promoting regional stability resonates deeply with Congress, leading to the strengthening of this special bond. The shared vision of mutual benefit and cooperation between Erbil and Washington further solidifies the partnership, bolstering the Kurdistan Region's position as a stable and democratic entity in the region.

In conclusion, Minister Dizayee's meetings with members of Congress showcased the unwavering commitment to stand together against threats, support democracy, and foster regional stability. The shared vision of a prosperous, democratic Kurdistan Region in the Middle East remains at the heart of this alliance, and Congress stands ready to support and nurture this partnership for the benefit of both peoples and the broader region.