Delphi Forum Slemani: Generating New Outcomes & Visions

Deputy PM's Media

Delphi Forum Slemani

The Delphi Forum Slemani kicked-off in Sulaymaniyah on Sunday, 18 May 2025, marking the forum’s first edition in the city. Symeon Tsomokos, founder and president of the Delphi Economic Forum, inaugurated the event by emphasising that the forum is not merely about policy discussion, but about generating new outcomes and visions. He also revealed that this year’s agenda includes discussions on strengthening relations between the Kurdistan Region and Europe.

In his keynote address, Tsomokos highlighted that the forum has been held in Delphi, Greece, for the past decade with a focus on global economic challenges. He announced plans to expand the forum’s reach to cities including Washington, Berlin, and Paris. He concluded by expressing gratitude to all participants and attendees.

Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, also delivered a speech in which he underscored the historic and growing relationship between the Kurdistan Region and Greece. He praised Sulaymaniyah as a model of peace, coexistence, and intellectual vitality, describing the city as a proud host for such an important international event.

Deputy PM Talabani noted that the Kurdistan Region actively engages in both national and global issues—ranging from energy and migration to environmental concerns and economic development. He affirmed that the forum reflects the Region’s commitment to global economic dialogue and reform.

He further highlighted the talent and dynamism of Sulaymaniyah’s youth, noting their capacity to build genuine international partnerships and drive future economic reform. Deputy PM Talabani expressed appreciation to Symeon Tsomokos and extended thanks to all international guests attending the forum.

Greek Ambassador to Iraq, Georgios Almanos, also addressed the forum, encouraging the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Government of Iraq to deepen and enhance relations. He acknowledged the Kurdistan Region’s potential for growth, noting strong ties between the Kurdistan Region's investors and Greece. He also commented on Iraq’s economic position, observing that while the country is not poor, the inadequacy of public services remains a key challenge, evidenced by the reliance on private education.

Following the speeches, a panel discussion titled "The Middle East in World Power" featured several prominent political figures from Iraq and abroad, discussing the region's evolving geopolitical role.

The Delphi Economic Forum is internationally recognised as a vital platform for policy dialogue, regional development, and investment promotion. It addresses key issues such as security, sustainable energy, economic diversification, and innovation.

Hosting the forum in Sulaymaniyah for the first time represents a strategic initiative to enhance international engagement with a special focus on the Middle East. The event is held under the oversight of the Kurdistan Region’s Deputy Prime Minister, Qubad Talabani, and is supervised by the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.



PUKMEDIA