Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq (cabinet.gov.krd) - Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani received the Deputy Director of the International Relations of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China Li Jun, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Iraq Chen Wicheng, the Consul-General of the People's Republic of China to the Kurdistan Region Ni Ruchi, and their accompanying delegation.

The two sides stressed developing bilateral relations and cooperation in the economic and infrastructure fields. They also highlighted the Belt and Road Initiative, BRI, of the President of the People’s Republic of China, which can also be applied in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

To further discuss strengthing bilateral relations, the ruling Communist Party of China invited Prime Minister Barzani to visit Beijing.

Mr. Jun stressed that China commends the effective role of the Kurdistan Region in defeating ISIS. He stated that China desires to establish solid relations with the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, and stressed that China is willing to invest in the Kurdistan Region.

Prime Minister Barzani thanked People’s Republic of China for its support to the Kurdistan Region. He praised the role of the Chinese Embassy in Baghdad and its Consulate General in the Kurdistan Region, which are constantly working to develop the relations between the Kurdistan Region and China. He also stressed the willingness of the Kurdistan Regional Government to provide assistance for Chinese investment in the Kurdistan Region.