Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani meets with Greek Foreign Minister

Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq (GOV.KRD) – Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani on Saturday met with the Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nikos Dendias, to discuss economic relations.

The two officials discussed the possibility of exploring oil and gas trade between the Kurdistan Region and Europe. The Deputy Prime Minister noted that disagreements between the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Federal Government of Iraq over the extractive industry must first be resolved to ensure international agreements will be respected.

The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasized the Kurdistan Regional Government is prepared to facilitate Greek companies and businesses to invest in the Kurdistan Region, notably in the industry, agriculture, and tourism sectors.
 
The two officials agreed to begin direct air travel between the Kurdistan Region and Greece, which will be supported by the Greek Foreign Minister working closely with airlines to facilitate the process.
 
Both sides discussed the political situation in Iraq and agreed dialogue should be prioritized to ensure all sides reach a common understanding. The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that gridlocks in Baghdad will continue to threaten the peace and stability of the country.

Deputy Prime Minister Talabani was joined by the President of the Diwan of Council of Ministers, Umed Sabah, the Chairman of General Board of Tourism, Amal Jalal, and the Deputy head of the Department of Foreign Relations, Daban Shadala.