Deputy PM Engages Japanese and Canadian Diplomats in Talks on Security, Investment, and Regional Development

P.U.K 08:56 PM - 2025-12-02

Deputy PM and Japanese Diplomat.

Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, met with Masamichi Sugaya, Director of the Second Middle East Division of Japan’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, to discuss enhancing bilateral ties.

At the outset of the meeting, they addressed the bombing of the Khor Mor gas field in Sulaymaniyah Governorate. Both parties viewed the incident as an attack on the energy and economic infrastructure of both the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. Sugaya conveyed his country’s support and sympathy, condemning the assault and expressing hope that such incidents would not recur.

Qubad Talabani remarked, “We do not support exporting gas from the Kurdistan Region. It should be utilised to meet domestic needs, generate electricity, and contribute to Kurdistan’s economic prosperity.”

The discussion also touched upon the importance of preserving security and stability in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, particularly at this stage as the country moves towards economic development and as interest from Japanese and other international investors continues to grow. In this context, the Deputy Prime Minister described the strengthening of economic and trade relations between Japan and both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region as an important and essential step, emphasising that Japan can play a significant role in the development process in both territories.

The political process in Iraq following the parliamentary elections was also reviewed, with hopes expressed for the swift formation of a new government that satisfies all sides.

Regarding the Kurdish position within Iraq, Qubad Talabani underlined the need to reinforce this position to ensure a stronger and more secure standing for the Kurdistan Region.

Establishment of the Kurdish–Canadian Business Council

On the same day, Qubad Talabani also received Canadian Ambassador to Iraq Christopher Boehm.

The two sides discussed bilateral relations, affirming that Iraq and the Kurdistan Region present considerable investment opportunities for Canadian companies and investors. 

Qubad Talabani expressed gratitude to the Canadian government for its active role in supporting security and stability in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, and welcomed the growing interest of Canadian companies in contributing to development efforts. They also discussed the establishment of a Kurdish–Canadian Business Council, agreeing that such a body could play a constructive and influential role in bolstering economic and trade relations between the two countries.

The meeting further addressed the development of the agricultural sector and the revitalisation of rural areas. Both parties stressed that supporting villages and improving local services would contribute to agricultural progress and broader economic diversification in Kurdistan.



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