This year’s edition, under the theme “Reflecting Diplomacy in a Fragmented World,” comes as “growing geopolitical rifts, deepening global inequalities, surge in violence targeting civilians, intolerance towards divergent views, uncertainties driven by technological disruptions and multidimensional impact of climate crisis have all shaken common sense of justice and eroded trust in international institutions,” the conference website reads.
President Barzani is listed among leaders who will attend the event, although his office has not confirmed his participation.
He has participated in numerous editions of the forum in recent years to strengthen the Kurdistan Region’s bilateral relations with countries globally.
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein is also listed on the attendees section of the conference website, which will be held with the support of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
President Barzani last visited Turkey in October, where he met with senior officials, including Erdogan, to discuss regional stability and strengthening bilateral ties.
Turkey and the Kurdistan Region enjoy strong economic relations. Erbil relies on Turkish imports for domestic consumption, and its economy is also heavily dependent on trade and investment with its northern neighbor.
The trade volume between the Kurdistan Region and Turkey is over five billion dollars every year.
