President Barzani Receives German Consul General in Erbil as Diplomatic Handover Takes Place

ARK News.. Masoud Barzani received Albrecht von Wittke on Saturday, August 1, 2026, during a farewell meeting marking the conclusion of the diplomat's mission in the Kurdistan Region.

At the outset of the meeting, held on the occasion of the outgoing consul general's departure and the introduction of Christian Ulfke as Germany's new consul general in Erbil, Von Wittke extended his condolences to President Barzani on the 43rd anniversary of the Barzani Anfal campaign, describing the tragedy as a painful chapter in the history of the Kurdish people.

The outgoing diplomat also expressed his appreciation to the Kurdistan Regional Government and the people of the Kurdistan Region for the cooperation and coordination he received throughout his tenure in Erbil, describing his service in the region as a rich and rewarding experience.

Von Wittke highlighted the strong ties between the Kurdistan Region and Germany, voicing hope that bilateral relations would continue to deepen. He also reaffirmed Germany's commitment to supporting cooperation with the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Kurdistan Peshmerga Forces in the fight against terrorism.

For his part, President Barzani thanked Albrecht von Wittke for his efforts during his diplomatic mission and welcomed Christian Ulfke as Germany's new consul general in Erbil, wishing him success in his new post.

Barzani also expressed his gratitude to the German government and people for their continued support of the Peshmerga forces and the people of the Kurdistan Region during difficult periods, particularly throughout the war against terrorism. He emphasized his aspiration to further strengthen bilateral relations and friendship across various fields.

The meeting also reviewed the political and security situation in Iraq, regional developments and tensions, and the risks posed by a resurgence of terrorism and extremism in the Middle East.

Discussions additionally covered the political process in the Kurdistan Region, the situation of the Kurds in Syria, and the ongoing peace process in Turkey.

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