President Barzani Receives Ms. Victoria Taylor

On Wednesday, February 11, 2026, in Pirmam, President Masoud Barzani received Ms. Victoria Taylor, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Iraq and Iran Affairs and the current Director of the Iraq Initiative at the Atlantic Council.

The meeting focused on regional developments, the political process in Iraq, ongoing efforts by political parties to form a new Iraqi government, and relations between Erbil and Baghdad.

Discussions also covered the situation in Syria and western Kurdistan and the latest developments there. Ms. Taylor highlighted President Barzani’s important role and his sustained engagement with Damascus, the Syrian Democratic Forces, and the U.S. Special Envoy for Syria to consolidate the ceasefire and promote dialogue as the primary means of resolving disputes and conflicts, expressing strong appreciation for these efforts.

President Barzani reaffirmed his commitment to peace and stability in Syria and western Kurdistan, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the truce and ceasefire between Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces. He stressed that both sides must adhere to and implement the terms of their agreement to end fighting and reduce tensions. He added that, to support this goal, “we have spared no effort and done everything possible through mediation between the two parties and delivering humanitarian assistance to those affected.