Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani emphasized that peace through dialogue is the foundation for lasting stability. He addressed the International Peace and Democratic Society Conference in Istanbul. Barzani stressed that peace requires trust, understanding, and collaboration, not only the silencing of weapons. He explained that peace through dialogue creates opportunities for development and regional stability.
The conference, held by the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party, focused on mediating talks between the PKK and the Turkish state. Barzani reaffirmed Kurdistan Region’s active support for the negotiations. Over the past year, the PKK dissolved itself, laid down arms, and withdrew from key border positions. However, the group highlighted gaps in the Turkish state’s contributions to the process.
Barzani’s spokesperson stated that violence brings destruction and backwardness. Conversely, political dialogue generates opportunities for growth and cooperation. The President emphasized that whenever dialogue succeeds, all parties benefit from enhanced security and economic progress. Peace through dialogue remains the cornerstone of the Region’s diplomatic strategy.
The Kurdistan Region maintains strong political and economic ties with Turkey. Barzani noted that Turkey’s stability directly affects the Region’s security and prosperity. He described Turkey as a strategic neighbor and reiterated the Region’s commitment to supporting ongoing talks. Both the PKK and Ankara have recognized Kurdistan Region’s positive role in the negotiations.
Barzani reiterated that the Region has consistently supported peace initiatives. Dialogue, he explained, achieves far-reaching gains when political will exists. He highlighted that previous phases of engagement demonstrated that negotiation and cooperation can solve deep-rooted conflicts. The President also thanked Turkish leadership and PKK representatives for contributing to dialogue efforts.
The conference emphasized dialogue, compromise, and mutual understanding as key tools to resolve regional conflicts. Barzani concluded that the Kurdistan Region will continue to act as a stabilizing force in the Middle East. He encouraged all parties to uphold their commitments and prioritize negotiations over conflict.
Overall, the President’s message reinforced Kurdistan Region’s dedication to peaceful solutions, regional collaboration, and sustainable progress. The Istanbul forum underlined that lasting peace is possible only through persistent engagement, structured negotiation, and mutual trust.
