Erbil: The President of the Kurdistan Region, Nechirvan Barzani, received Italy’s highest honor.

According to Iraqi News Agency, the Presidency of the Region announced in a press release that during a ceremony held in Erbil, Barzani was awarded the Order of the Star of Italy, Grand Cross, by the President of the Italian Republic. This marks the first occasion this prestigious honor has been conferred upon an individual in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

The ceremony, as detailed in the statement, was attended by the Italian Consul General in the Kurdistan Region, representatives from various parties and institutions in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, alongside several diplomatic missions and guests. During the event, the Italian Ambassador to Iraq, Niccolò Fontana, formally presented the honor to President Nechirvan Barzani.

The Italian Ambassador highlighted in his remarks that the award recognizes Barzani’s significant political influence and his critical role in enhancing bilateral relations. He acknowled
ged Barzani’s persistent endeavors towards fostering dialogue and peace, supporting Italian enterprises, facilitating the opening and enhancement of the Italian Consulate General in Erbil, and providing comprehensive support to Italian military and archaeological teams in the Kurdistan Region.

The Ambassador further emphasized that the ceremony symbolized Italy’s sincere friendship with Iraq and Kurdistan, a relationship that President Nechirvan Barzani has consistently championed. He lauded the President’s effective leadership and expressed optimism that Iraq and Kurdistan would continue to thrive under his guidance.

President Nechirvan Barzani, in his speech, conveyed his profound joy and pride in receiving the honor, extending his gratitude to Italy’s President, government, and citizens. Barzani remarked that the award reflects the deep-rooted and historical ties between Italy, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region, acknowledging the collective effort in building and fortifying these relations.