During the graduation ceremony at the American University of Kurdistan in Duhok on Sunday, June 1, 2025, Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani underlined that for the first time in history, the economy of the Kurdistan Region is moving beyond oil.
“For the first time in our history, Kurdistan presented the progress we have made in achieving economic independence that is not premised on oil, an economic vision that is based on the emergence of non-oil sectors, such as banking and agriculture,” he stated.
“Indeed, through this economic vision we are building the very foundations of a stronger, more resilient Kurdistan. Across our region, major road networks are being constructed, vital water supply systems are being expanded, and new dams are being developed to safeguard our future. We are securing the essentials of modern life – not just for today, but for generations to come.”
Kurdistan needs your energy, your ideas, and your leadership – now more than ever.
— Masrour Barzani (@masrourbarzani) June 1, 2025
Congratulations, @OfficialAuk Class of 2025. pic.twitter.com/BpvY0O8ZEt
Recently, the Kurdistan Region also reached an energy milestone, with over 1 million citizens benefiting from 24-hour electricity access due to the Runaki initiative.
“And at the heart of this progress is a commitment to reliable electricity. Through the ambitious Runaki project, we are turning one of our greatest challenges into one of our greatest breakthroughs – lighting homes, powering industries, and energizing the promise of a brighter Kurdistan,” he highlighted.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Barzani described how the MyAccount banking initiative empowers citizens by providing easier access to digital banking, improving transparency and enabling a broader culture of entrepreneurship and accountability
“At the heart of all this progress lies one driving force: technology. Artificial intelligence and digital transformation are no longer distant concepts; they are here, reshaping our economy and society. That’s why we are investing in innovation hubs and encouraging partnerships between universities and the tech sector.”
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani also discussed his recent trip to the United States.
“Be citizens in the truest sense — those who serve, uplift, and shape society,” said Prime Minister Masrour Barzani at AUK’s graduation ceremony, class of 2025. pic.twitter.com/a8RR8SXj93
— Kurdistan Chronicle (@KrdChronicle) June 2, 2025
“We reaffirmed our enduring, values-driven partnership with the United States and its people – a bond that has grown exponentially since the 1990s,” Prime Minister Barzani said.
“During this trip, we signed strategic agreements with leading U.S. energy companies that will serve as engines of economic growth, investment, and innovation. Most importantly, they will generate high-quality jobs and opportunities across key sectors.”
