Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani stressed that there is a major opportunity for Kurdistan to become an important United States trade partner in the region, following a meeting with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce delegation.

Talabani stated that they exchanged ideas with the delegation, which was led by Steve Lutes, Vice President for Middle East Affairs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and accompanied by Consul General Gwendolyn “Wendy” Green, on economic relations between the Kurdistan Region and the United States.

Discussions Focus on AI, Technology, and Youth Skills to Boost Regional Economy

The discussions explored the use of new technologies and artificial intelligence in economic development and ways to expand trade relations between Kurdistan and the United States.

“We discussed our efforts to develop the skills of Kurdistan's youth in technology and entrepreneurship,” Talabani remarked, adding that young people in the Kurdistan Region are talented and innovative, and can play a key role in applying new technologies and artificial intelligence in the region's development.

“They will also contribute to strengthening trade relations between the United States and Kurdistan through their technological capabilities,” he emphasized.

The Deputy Prime Minister further stated that strengthening trade relations between Kurdistan and the United States “will help us achieve our goals,” affirming that this would enable the Kurdistan Region “to emerge as both an important economic and technological center in the region in the future.”

“We were very pleased with the visit of this U.S. trade delegation, and there is certainly a significant opportunity for Kurdistan to become an important U.S. trade partner in the region,” he added.

U.S. Officials Highlight Investment Opportunities and Strengthening Business Ties

The delegation aimed to boost commercial and economic ties, promote investment and business, and encourage companies to operate in the Kurdistan Region.

In yesterday’s meeting with the Erbil Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Steve Lutes said the visit aimed to emphasize “the foundational pillar of our relationship, which is the commercial investment and economic ties between the Kurdistan Region and the United States.”

For her part, Consul General Green highlighted the partnership between the United States and the Kurdistan Region, focusing on business and economic relations, and emphasized the opportunities ahead.