“The most important aspects of Italy’s relations with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, the situation in the region, and several issues of common interest were discussed,” said a statement from the Kurdistan Region Presidency.
During the meeting, Barzani wished Sansone success and directed him to all the relevant agencies in the Kurdistan Region.
Italy is a member of the global anti-ISIS coalition, formed in 2014 when the jihadists seized swathes of land in Iraq and Syria, and is actively engaged in supporting and training Iraqi security forces and the Kurdish Peshmerga.
During an April interview with Rudaw, former Italian envoy to Iraq Maurizio Greganti said that Rome enjoys “excellent” relations with Erbil and that Italians and Kurds are very close.
He also said that the Italian embassy is actively trying to bring more investment into the Kurdistan Region.
Last month, Barzani received Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto in Erbil, discussing Erbil-Rome relations and Italy’s support in the fight against ISIS.
Also in December, Barzani met with Italian Ambassador to Iraq Niccolo Fontana, reiterating Erbil’s desire to strengthen ties with Rome.
