A high-level KRG delegation, led by Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed, arrived in Vienna to strengthen bilateral relations with Austria and expand cooperation in key areas. The visit focuses on security, the economy, trade, and refugee-related issues.
According to Barzan Hassan, the talks will culminate in the signing of a formal agreement at Austria’s Interior Ministry. This agreement represents a significant step toward closer cooperation and ensures that discussions result in concrete outcomes.
The KRG delegation will hold a series of meetings with senior Austrian officials, beginning with Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner. Officials will discuss improved coordination across multiple sectors and establish clear mechanisms to guarantee the implementation of agreed commitments. Unlike previous visits, this one is expected to conclude with a signed agreement, translating political dialogue into long-term cooperation.
Austria’s invitation reflects Vienna’s growing interest in deepening its partnership with the Kurdistan Region. Officials highlighted shared priorities in regional stability and security. Austria has been an active member of the international coalition against ISIS and a strong supporter of the Kurdistan Peshmerga forces. Austrian military trainers have worked in the Kurdistan Region to provide capacity-building support and counterterrorism training.
Diplomatic ties between the Kurdistan Region and Austria extend over a decade. The KRG opened its representation office in Vienna on June 14, 2012, to oversee economic, cultural, and academic relations. Austria has maintained a commercial office in Erbil since 2006. Recently, Austria announced plans to establish an Honorary Consulate in Erbil, further strengthening bilateral relations.
The Vienna visit underscores the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to fostering stronger international partnerships. It highlights both countries’ shared interest in promoting security, economic growth, and cooperation in areas of mutual benefit.
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