Nechirvan Barzani: A Strict Centralized System Is Not Suitable for Governing Syria

ARK News.. Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Region, affirmed that the Region has always sought to be a source of security and peace in the Middle East, emphasizing that Kurdistan has “done its utmost not to be part of the problems that have unfolded in the region.”

Speaking during a panel session at the Middle East Peace and Security Forum “MEPS 2025,” organized by the American University of Duhok and launched on Tuesday under the theme “Directed Chaos: A New Middle East,” President Barzani stressed that it has always been the Kurdistan Region’s policy to promote peace and stability — a policy he said the Region will continue to uphold.

Barzani noted that the region’s crises require “sound thinking” to find solutions, as warfare no longer brings anything but destruction. He stressed that issues must be resolved through dialogue.

He expressed satisfaction that initial steps have been taken toward addressing crises in the Middle East — particularly in Gaza — describing yesterday’s UN Security Council resolution on the matter as significant and expressing hope that it will yield results.

Regarding the role of the United States, Barzani said Washington remains a global power capable of playing a very important and serious role in the Middle East.

He also discussed the issues between Erbil and Baghdad, reiterating that both sides seek to resolve their disputes peacefully and through dialogue.

On the peace process in Turkey, Barzani said the Kurdistan Region has always been ready to support the process because it benefits all communities in Turkey and has a profound impact on the Kurdistan Region and the wider region. He emphasized that peace is a serious undertaking that cannot be achieved overnight and requires time and commitment from all parties.

Barzani noted that the Region’s role lies in helping Turkey and the PKK move toward an understanding. He added that there is significant seriousness in Ankara toward implementing the process, while Abdullah Ocalan continues to stress the need to move forward with it.

Turning to Syria, the President said the Syrian people deserve a much better life, adding that the rise of Ahmad al-Sharaa to power represents a major opportunity to bring calm and stability to the country.

Barzani reiterated that a strict centralized system is not suitable for governing Syria, given its ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity.

“Syria needs a new model of governance,” he said, “but unfortunately the government is still holding on to a strong centralized system. We believe this model cannot build a better future for the country.”

Regarding Turkey’s role in Syrian affairs, he explained that Ankara strongly wishes to help solve Syria’s problems and is making efforts in that direction. However, he stressed that it is ultimately up to the Syrian government to reach a conclusion that enables the adoption of a new governance model.

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