KRG Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani stated on Thursday that he has long worked with professionals to establish a cinema center and participated in the 78th Cannes Film Festival to announce plans for the Kurdistan Film Commission–Slemani.

“Kurdistan is a land of untold stories, from the tragic stories of Anfal to the amazing stories of struggle and resistance. The beautiful, meaningful and fascinating stories the world longs to hear and see,” Talabani said in a statement.

He explained that the commission aims “to put Kurdistan on the map of world cinema and become a bridge between Kurdistan and international film production companies.”

Talabani added the project will create opportunities for Kurdish actors and filmmakers to participate in international productions and will work to develop their skills through training programs.

He also announced new funding initiatives to support the production of Kurdish films.

“It is a pleasure to note that the projects of the Kurdistan Film Commission–Slemani have been well received both in our discussions with the producers participating in the Cannes Film Festival and in our previous discussions with other production companies,” he said.

The 78th Cannes Film Festival is currently underway in France from May 13 to 24. The festival is a prestigious annual event that presents new international films and attracts leading filmmakers, actors, and cinema experts.