Austria's Foreign Minister declared his country's support to President Barzani during telephone conversation

Austria’s Foreign Minister, Sebastian Kurz, declared his nations support for President Massoud Barzani, of the Kurdistan Region, to help defeat the latest surge in terrorism near the region’s territory.

Minister Kurz condemned terrorist operations facing the people of Kurdistan, and asserted his country’s displeasure. Minister Kurz mentioned to Mr Barzani that before the EU meeting – to be held on Friday in Brussels – he would converse with delegates on the latest developments in Kurdistan to rally support for the region.

President Barzani thanked the historic role that Austria has played and with its friendship with the people of Kurdistan. Mr Barzani stated that he is proud to be at the forefront, on behalf on the world, with the fight against terrorism. He also welcomed any kind of cooperation, along with humanitarian and military assistance provided by the Austrian government, for the people of Kurdistan.

President Barzani also noted the heroic role of the Peshmerga forces, and is full of confidence that along with the will of the people from Kurdistan, the war against terrorism will be victorious.

The two also discussed the refugee crisis where President Barzani informed the Minister Kurz, that with the right assistance, and despite many exceeding the capacity, the crisis can be overcome with the right assistance from the international community.