Erbil: Masoud Barzani, leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party, met today in Erbil with Michael Regas, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, in a meeting underscoring the depth of bilateral relations between the Kurdistan Region and the United States.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Regas expressed his pleasure in visiting the region and congratulated Barzani on the successful parliamentary elections and the significant victories achieved by the Democratic Party in the electoral process.

The U.S. official praised Barzani's role in advancing the region, combating terrorism, and ensuring security and stability, emphasizing the importance of continuing and expanding cooperation between Kurdistan and the United States across all fields. He described the opening of the largest U.S. consulate in Erbil as a strategic step reflecting Washington's support for the region's stability and prosperity.

Regas also highlighted that the security and stability of the Kurdistan Region are crucial for the broader stability of the Middle East, calling for an end to acts of sabotage, particularly the recent attack on the Kormor oil field.

For his part, Barzani described the consulate's opening as a "historic day in Kurdistan-U.S. relations," recalling the historical oppression faced by the Kurdish people and the role of the U.S. and the UN Security Council in protecting the region during the uprising, including the establishment of a no-fly zone.

He further emphasized the United States' support for the Peshmerga forces in the fight against ISIS, noting that American assistance helped prevent far greater human losses. Barzani concluded by affirming the Kurdish people's appreciation for U.S. support and his commitment to strengthening bilateral relations across multiple sectors.