Barzani’s Message at the Newroz Festival in Bonn

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani affirmed on Saturday, March 20, 2026, that Newroz represents the rebirth of a nation that has never abandoned the path of struggle to attain its rights and freedom, stressing that Kurdish unity and cohesion are the guarantee for gaining international support for the just cause of the people of Kurdistan.

In a recorded video message delivered during the Newroz celebration held in Bonn, Barzani called on the Kurdish diaspora to act as decent ambassadors of their nation by preserving their identity and language, while expressing his support for Kurdish rights in Syria and for the peace process in Turkey.

He also wished safety and stability for Kurds in Iranian Kurdistan and the Kurdistan Region amid ongoing challenges and unrest.

Below is the full text of the speech:

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful,

Dear sisters and brothers,

Distinguished attendees,

Dear people of Kurdistan,

Welcome to this mass gathering on the occasion of our national celebration, Newroz. From the depths of my heart, I had wished to be with you at this vibrant and joyful ceremony, but due to the complex conditions facing the region, I regret that I am unable to attend. I extend my warmest congratulations on the occasion of Newroz to all Kurds in Kurdistan, Europe, the United States, and everywhere in the world.

Newroz is not merely the arrival of a new season or the renewal of nature, nor is it just a historical date. For the Kurdish people, it is a symbol of rebirth and freedom—a sign of a new beginning, hope, and the dawn of a brighter day. It is the hope of a people who have never abandoned the path of struggle and resistance for their rights and freedom.

The flame of Newroz has burned in the heart of every Kurd for thousands of years, sending a message to the world that this people possesses an unbreakable will that no tyrant can defeat. Newroz is the flame of freedom, self-confidence, and resilience within every individual Kurd.

Dear people of Kurdistan, Wherever we are—whether in Kurdistan, Europe, America, or elsewhere—we are united by one fundamental message: Kurdish identity and the love of freedom. I am truly pleased to see this large gathering of Kurds today in Bonn. This in itself is proof of unity, solidarity, and cohesion. It shows that Kurds, wherever they are, can stand together with one heart and one voice in defense of their identity and rights. This is the right path and the way forward. I urge you to preserve your unity and your collective voice at all times. We are living in an era in which the world’s attention is increasingly focused on the Kurds. If we prove our presence and stand united, the world will become our friend, supporter, and ally.

European countries have become a second home for many Kurds from all parts of Kurdistan, yet I am confident that your hearts remain connected to your homeland. I call on you to ensure that your children remain connected to the Kurdish language and culture. Every Kurd living abroad should serve as a worthy ambassador of their nation, embodying the highest values of our people while respecting the laws and systems of the countries that have provided them with safety.

Dear sisters and brothers,

It is a matter of satisfaction that Kurdistan in Syria has been protected from disasters and tragedies. We also support the peace process in Turkey and hope it will lead to positive results that serve the interests of all. At a time when the world is undergoing major transformations, our region, unfortunately, continues to experience wars and instability.

In such conditions, when the world needs peace and stability, the message of the people of Kurdistan has always been one of peace and security. All our efforts are aimed at ensuring that the Kurdish people are not drawn into conflicts and wars. We wish safety and stability for our brothers and sisters in Iranian Kurdistan as well as in the Kurdistan Region.

In conclusion, I renew my congratulations on Newroz and wish you a year filled with good and happiness. I call on you to stand together as brothers and place national values and principles above all interests and ideologies. We in Kurdistan place great hope in the strength, influence, and role of the Kurdish diaspora in promoting and advancing the just cause of our people on the global stage.

Happy Newroz, and wishing you all a prosperous year.

I have great confidence in the future of the people of Kurdistan—victory will always be ours.

Glory and eternity to the souls of the martyrs of the path of freedom everywhere.

I also extend my thanks to the Confederation of the Kurdish diaspora for their efforts.

Happy Newroz, and may you always remain in good health and happiness.

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