In a warm and cordial reception, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government Masrour Barzani had the pleasure of welcoming HRH the Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Sophie, to the region. Duchess Sophie, the esteemed wife of Prince Edward who is the brother of King Charles III, visited the region as part of her diplomatic tour. 

The visit marked an important occasion to strengthen ties between the Kurdistan Region and the United Kingdom.

The meeting between Prime Minister Barzani and Duchess Sophie was filled with mutual respect and the exchange of cultural goodwill. The Kurdistan Region has a long history of embracing diversity and extending hospitality to guests, and this visit served as a testament to the region's commitment to fostering international relations.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Barzani and Duchess Sophie engaged in discussions covering a wide range of topics, including bilateral cooperation, cultural exchanges, and humanitarian efforts. The Kurdistan Region has been an important partner for the United Kingdom, particularly in the areas of security and humanitarian support. The visit provided an opportunity for both parties to further enhance these collaborative efforts.

As the meeting concluded, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani expressed his gratitude to Duchess Sophie for her visit and conveyed his hope for continued cooperation and friendship between the Kurdistan Region and the United Kingdom. The visit of Duchess Sophie will undoubtedly be remembered as a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to strengthen international relations and foster a spirit of collaboration between the two regions. 

Challenges facing women and girls

On April 21, HRH the Duchess of Edinburgh Sophie embarked on a significant four-day journey to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region with a noble purpose—to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by women and girls in the region, particularly regarding gender-based violence. This visit demonstrated her commitment to promoting women's rights, advocating for equality, and supporting initiatives that empower marginalized communities.

As a prominent figure, the Duchess of Edinburgh recognized the importance of using her platform to shed light on critical issues affecting women and girls around the world. By choosing to visit Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, she aimed to raise awareness about the unique struggles faced by women in conflict-affected areas and to engage in constructive dialogue with local communities, organizations, and leaders.

During the second day of her visit, the Duchess toured schools, hospitals, and refugee camps, engaging in conversations with different individuals. In the evening, the British Consulate in Erbil hosted a reception in her honor, aiming to facilitate interactions between the Duchess and people from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds in the Kurdistan region. 

The presence of community members representing diverse backgrounds highlighted the region's dedication to inclusivity, showcasing its vibrant array of traditions. During the reception, the Duchess emphasized the importance of addressing gender and sexual violence while also witnessing the ceremony to promote two Kurdish female soldiers who recently graduated from Sandhurst military academy.

Cultural understanding and appreciation 

The gathering epitomized the essence of the Kurdistan region's hospitality and warmth, as people from different communities came together to extend their welcome to Duchess Sophie. It served as a powerful demonstration of unity, emphasizing the shared values of respect, understanding, and cooperation.

During the reception, guests were able to engage in meaningful conversations, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. The exchange of ideas and experiences further deepened the bond between the Kurdistan Region and the United Kingdom, laying the foundation for enhanced collaboration in various fields.

By engaging with the attendees at the reception, the Duchess acquired valuable knowledge about the distinctive customs and identity of the region. This direct involvement undoubtedly had a profound impact on her, cultivating a heightened admiration for the diverse cultural heritage within the Kurdistan region. 

During her speech, she expressed that the region had made an indelible impression on her, affirming that it had left a lasting mark and would continue to hold a special place in her heart.