Last month, Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, hosted a special event to celebrate the 100th birthday of Madame Danielle Mitterrand, the late First Lady of France and a true friend of the Kurdish people. Fondly remembered as the “Mother of the Kurds,” her enduring legacy was honored through heartfelt speeches, cultural exhibitions, and the screening of a documentary about her extraordinary life.
The event brought together prominent Kurdish and French dignitaries, including President Masoud Barzani, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, France’s Ambassador to Iraq Patrick Durel, and Emmanuel Poilane, Secretary General of the Danielle Mitterrand Foundation, together with Frederic Tissot, the first French Consul General in Kurdistan, and Yann Braem, the French Consul General. This gathering highlighted Mitterrand’s profound contributions to the Kurdish cause and her lasting impact on the Kurdistan Region.
On this occasion, Kurdistan Chronicle sat down with Braem for an exclusive interview, in which he shared his thoughts on Mitterrand’s legacy and explored the strong ties between France and the Kurdistan Region in politics, business, and culture.
Heart and soul
Braem reflected on Mitterrand’s relentless efforts to put Kurdistan on France’s foreign policy map, particularly following the 1988 Halabja massacre. At a time when many ignored the atrocities, Mitterrand spoke out, drawing global attention to the Kurdish struggle.
“Danielle Mitterrand fought for Kurdistan with her heart and soul. Her courage and compassion continue to inspire us,” said Braem.
He described Mitterrand’s connection to Kurdistan as deeply personal. She worked for Kurdish unity, supported education, and championed democracy. Using her position as France’s First Lady, she gave voice to the Kurdish people’s fight for freedom and dignity.
Braem emphasized France’s lasting commitment to the Kurdistan Region, underscoring decades of partnership in education, culture, politics, and economic development.
“France has always been a steadfast friend of Kurdistan,” he said. “The bond between our peoples is unique, rooted in history, and continues to grow. I see it every day here, and it’s echoed in France, where the Kurdish people hold a special place in the hearts of the French.”
Politically, Braem noted the close ties between Kurdish and French leaders. “President Emmanuel Macron and other French officials regularly engage with Kurdish leaders, reflecting the continued dialogue and trust between them,” he said. He also pointed to economic and cultural collaborations, including Erbil and Paris being sister cities.
Braem also mentioned the two French schools in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah that are named after Danielle Mitterrand, which uphold French education standards and honor her legacy.
“France is committed to working across all fronts – political, security, cultural, economic, and educational – to strengthen this special partnership,” he added.
When asked how Mitterrand might view Kurdistan today, Braem said, “She would see both progress and challenges. Her message would be simple: Keep striving for unity, democracy, and education. She believed freedom without education is incomplete, and that belief continues to guide our efforts in the region.”
Economic cooperation
Economic ties between France and the Kurdistan Region are strong and diverse, with significant potential for further growth. French investments in the Kurdistan Region, estimated at $3 billion in stock, cover key sectors such as the construction, infrastructure, agriculture, retail, and agro-food industries. Notable projects include the Lafarge cement factory, Danone food company, and Carrefour’s extensive retail network, which sources much of its fresh produce – fruits and vegetables – from local Kurdish farmers.
“French businesses are not just investing, they’re becoming part of the local economy, creating jobs, and enhancing expertise,” said the Consul General.
He emphasized that these investments are about more than financial returns. “For me, this partnership is about building a better future together,” he added.
Agriculture stands out as an area of immense opportunity. “Kurdish produce is of exceptional quality, and the agricultural sector has real export potential,” the Consul General said. France, a global leader in the food and agriculture industries, could play a vital role in helping the region process and package its produce for international markets. Kurdish participation in the prestigious SIAL food exhibition in Paris this year was a step toward making that vision a reality.
France is also playing a role in the Kurdistan Region’s infrastructure development. Companies like Artelia have contributed to water management and dam projects. “Sustainable infrastructure, smart cities, and renewable energy are key areas where French companies can make a big impact,” said Braem.
In September, France hosted a major economic forum in Paris to connect Kurdish and French businesses. Organized in collaboration with the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Board of Investment and French business association MEDEF, the forum aimed to strengthen partnerships. “The best way to deepen ties is through direct collaboration between businesses,” he explained. Four Kurdish ministers went to Paris on this occasion.
Despite these achievements, challenges remain, such as the lack of direct flights between the Kurdistan Region and France. “I would be the happiest man in the world if I could fly directly from Erbil to Paris,” he said with a smile.
Culture and heritage collaboration
Cultural ties between France and Kurdistan are also thriving, with institutions like the French Institute in Erbil serving as vital bridges for collaboration. These efforts enrich the region’s cultural and educational landscape, creating a dynamic exchange. As the Consul General explained, France’s role is not just about showcasing its own culture, but creating a dialogue with Kurdistan.
“Our mission is to intertwine French and Kurdish cultures in every event,” Braem added.
Language is another vital component of this connection. The French Institute offers courses and certifications that have become highly popular among students and professionals. At the same time, French schools in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah provide multilingual education in Kurdish, French, Arabic, and English. “These schools are gateways to the world,” the Consul General explained, adding, “Our graduates are thriving, with many continuing their studies in France, where they benefit from an affordable and world-class university system.”
Further strengthening these ties, a “French Corner” was inaugurated on December 2 at the University of Kurdistan Hewler in Erbil, giving students access to resources and opportunities in France.
France’s contribution to preserving Kurdistan’s archaeological heritage is equally noteworthy. The French Institute of the Near East, based in Erbil, collaborates with local teams on excavations at the Erbil Citadel, a site of immense historical significance. In Amedi, a picturesque town rich in history, French and Kurdish experts are working together to protect its multi-religious heritage under a project supported by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“Amedi is a jewel of shared history,” Braem said. “Its layers of Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Zoroastrian influences tell a story of coexistence that must be preserved for future generations.”
These restoration projects are not only safeguarding history, but also promoting economic growth through tourism. “We aim to protect these cultural treasures while making them accessible to the world,” the Consul General added. “This careful balance ensures both preservation and progress.”
Braem concluded the interview by expressing gratitude for his role in Kurdistan. “Being the Consul General here is a blessing,” he said. “In every house, every office, with anyone I meet, I’ve encountered amazing friendliness and a genuine willingness to collaborate. It’s remarkable how deeply rooted our ties are, whether it’s our shared struggles against ISIS or the values we hold dear – freedom, democracy, and the role of women in society.”
He also spoke of his admiration for Kurdistan’s breathtaking landscapes. “I love exploring the mountains in Akre, Barzan, Sulaymaniyah, and beyond. I haven’t seen everything yet, but I look forward to discovering more,” he said. ”I’m a hiker, and walking in these mountains is part of my plan for the coming months. The natural beauty here is unparalleled.”
Qassim Khidhir has 15 years of experience in journalism and media development in Iraq. He has contributed to both local and international media outlets.
