President Barzani meets German Ambassador to Iraq

President of the Kurdistan-Region Massoud Barzani met with the German Ambassador to Iraq, Ms Brita Wagener, and Germany Foreign Ministry’s Director of Middle East, Mr Boris Ruge, on Monday to converse the developments in Iraq and the issue of Syrian refugees in Iraq.

The aspect of the meeting concentrated on the impact of Syrian refugees in the Kurdistan-Region which currently account to more than 150,000, and plans to build a new camp near the capital Erbil, to accommodate their increasing numbers.

Ambassador Wagener said Germany has proclaimed it will contribute 20 million dollars to Syrian refugees in neighbouring countries, adding that the majority of this donation will be guided to Syrian refugees in Kurdistan.

President Barzani said it is unfortunate that so far there has been a minimal international consideration to Syrian refugees residing in Kurdistan, but welcomed this contribution from the German government and expressed his hope that this will be the beginning of more aid.

The President and the Ambassador Wagener also talked about the deteriorating security condition in Iraq and political intensifications in the country. Mr Barzani said there has recently been a positive breakthrough in relations between Baghdad and Erbil, and reiterated Kurdistan Regional Government commitment to resolving all outstanding issues with Baghdad through dialogue.

Mr Ruge said his government is very pleased about the strong ties with the KRG and looks forward to further promotion of relationship though their Consul-General in Erbil.