Italy has awarded Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani its highest state honor, recognizing his role in strengthening relations between the Kurdistan Region and Italy.
The Knight of the Grand Cross of the Order of the Star of Italy was presented in Erbil by Italian Ambassador to Iraq Niccolò Fontana on behalf of Italian President Sergio Mattarella.
The prestigious award is granted to individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting Italy’s international relations and cooperation abroad. It recognizes achievements in areas including diplomacy, politics, culture, trade, science, and humanitarian efforts.
The honor reflects more than two decades of growing cooperation between Erbil and Rome, with ties expanding through political, economic, and security partnerships.
Relations between the two sides advanced in 2015 when Italy upgraded its diplomatic office in Erbil to a Consulate General following discussions between Barzani, then serving as Kurdistan Region prime minister, and Italian officials.
In recent years, Barzani has continued diplomatic engagement with Italy, including meetings with senior Italian leaders to discuss regional stability, security cooperation, and support for the Kurdistan Region.
The award places President Barzani among a number of international figures who have received the distinction for their contributions to strengthening Italy’s global relations.
