The Netherlands has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting agriculture in the Kurdistan Region through a long-term partnership centered on the Bazian Valley. The initiative aims to modernize farming, improve food security, and help diversify the region’s economy beyond oil.
Speaking at the project’s launch, Dutch Deputy Consul-General Bertrille Snoeijer described the Bazian Valley agriculture partnership as the beginning of a lasting collaboration. She said success depends on cooperation between farmers, government agencies, universities, researchers, traders, suppliers, and private companies.
Snoeijer stressed that agriculture can drive economic growth, strengthen rural communities, and improve food security. She added that long-term cooperation creates stronger results than short-term development projects.
The initiative followed three years of research before any practical work began. During that period, experts interviewed farmers, traders, retailers, suppliers, and government officials. They examined every stage of the agricultural supply chain to identify challenges facing vegetable production in Bazian.
Based on those findings, the project introduced several practical improvements. These include farmer field schools, testing of new tomato and turmeric varieties, international food safety standards, better grading and sorting systems, improved packaging, and the launch of the Bazian Valley Fresh brand to increase market recognition.
The project also works closely with the University of Sulaimani. Students and researchers now collaborate with local farmers while the program encourages greater participation by women throughout the agricultural sector.
Snoeijer highlighted the Dutch Diamond Model, which brings together farmers, businesses, research institutions, and government organizations. She said every partner has a different role but shares the same goal of building a stronger, more competitive, and sustainable agricultural sector.
An evaluation planned for August will measure the project’s progress and help shape the next phase of cooperation. Dutch officials hope the review will lead to a broader long-term agricultural partnership with the Kurdistan Region.
The Bazian Valley agriculture partnership builds on years of cooperation between the Netherlands and the Kurdistan Region. Previous joint projects helped expand potato production, improve farming methods, and increase agricultural exports. Dutch officials also continue to identify vegetables, dairy production, and sustainable farming as promising areas for future investment.
The project reflects the growing economic relationship between the two sides. By connecting farmers with researchers, universities, businesses, and public institutions, the initiative aims to improve productivity, strengthen food security, support rural employment, and create higher-value agricultural products.
For the Kurdistan Regional Government, the project supports efforts to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil revenues. Meanwhile, the Netherlands sees the partnership as a model for long-term, sustainable agricultural development built on innovation, knowledge sharing, and strong public-private cooperation.
