Baghdad, Iraq – Kurdish politician Hassan Qawal Rashid commented on the historic visit of Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Masrour Barzani to Egypt and his meeting with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. He affirmed that the meeting reflects the strengthening of bilateral relations and the promotion of security and stability in the region.
Rashid told “Voice Of Emirates” that relations between Egyptians and Kurds are not a recent phenomenon. They date back centuries, to the 14th century BC, between the ancestors of the Kurds and the ancient Egyptians. This continued through the era of Saladin and the Ottoman period, during which many Kurds lived in Egypt. He added that more than four million Egyptians of Kurdish origin currently reside in Egypt. They form an important and influential part of the Egyptian social fabric, in addition to a large number of Kurdish students studying at Egyptian universities.
Rashid explained that Egypt’s significant role in the region has led to expanded relations with the Kurdistan Region. These relations extend to cultural cooperation through Egyptian institutions linked to their counterparts in Erbil and other cities, as well as political and security coordination regarding combating extremism, terrorism, and political fragmentation in the Middle East. He emphasized that both sides share a common goal in confronting the Islamic State, which has provided a shared foundation for rapprochement and political coordination.
The Kurdish politician noted that Cairo has repeatedly affirmed its support for the stability of the Kurdistan Region, considering it fundamental to the security of Iraq and the region as a whole. He added that relations between Egypt and Kurdistan have evolved into a multifaceted partnership encompassing political dialogue, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. High-level meetings, such as Barzani’s meeting with President Sisi, reflect a mutual desire to strengthen institutional cooperation to address shared strategic challenges.
Rashid concluded by expressing his hope that the next phase would include a planned visit by President Sisi to Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region. This visit aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
