On May 19, 2025, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) marked a significant milestone in its economic development by signing two multi-billion-dollar agreements with American energy companies HKN Energy and WesternZagros Resources.
The signing ceremony took place in Washington, D.C., hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani heralded these deals as the dawn of a new era for the region, emphasizing their critical role in advancing Kurdistan’s energy infrastructure.
In his keynote address, Prime Minister Barzani stated, “These new investments are going to be very critical in developing the region as a whole. Our government has been dedicated to enhancing energy stability in Kurdistan, particularly through our reform programs aimed at providing 24-hour electricity to all areas and potentially exporting to other parts of Iraq.”
Watch highlights from the signing ceremony between the Kurdistan Region and U.S. energy companies, which Prime Minister Masrour Barzani described as the beginning of 'a new era' for energy and economic development in Kurdistan. pic.twitter.com/Ueui9taLUo
— Kurdistan Chronicle (@KrdChronicle) May 20, 2025
He congratulated both the people of Kurdistan and Iraq on this achievement, recognizing the importance of the partnership with American companies.
PM Barzani reflected on the historical ties between the KRG and the United States, forged during the fight against terrorism. He stressed that while security remains essential, economic cooperation is becoming a defining feature of their bilateral relationship.
Prime Minister @masrourbarzani met today with U.S. Congressman @RepJoeWilson.https://t.co/KR8B81GWqY
— Kurdistan Regional Government (@Kurdistan) May 20, 2025
“Economic development and energy investment are powerful tools that can deepen our relationship and strengthen our bonds,” he stated.
The agreements, estimated to be worth a combined $110 billion over their lifetimes, involve HKN Energy operating the Miran Block, valued at approximately $40 billion, and WesternZagros managing the Topkhana-Kurdamir gas field, projected to generate around $70 billion.
Both companies have a long-standing presence in the region, significantly contributing to its economic growth and sustainability.
Steve Lutes, Vice President of Middle East Affairs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, praised Barzani’s leadership, stating he is “the right man at the right time” to foster strong economic ties between Kurdistan and the United States.
Eric E. Stoerr, Managing Director of Oil & Gas Investment at Crest Investment Company, expressed optimism to Kurdistan Chronicle about the potential for significant natural gas production from Kurdistan, which is crucial for both local and regional electricity generation.
Prime Minister @masrourbarzani met with U.S. Senators Angus King and James Lankford in Washington as part of his official visit to the United States.https://t.co/vCktiOi650
— Kurdistan Regional Government (@Kurdistan) May 20, 2025
During his official visit to Washington, D.C., Prime Minister Masrour Barzani also engaged in high-level meetings with senior officials, including Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart and discussed the importance of further strengthening and expanding ties between the Kurdistan Region and the United States.
Congressman Joe Wilson also welcomed the Kurdish leader at his office and wrote on X later that he was “furious” with the Iraqi government’s stance on various issues affecting the Kurdistan Region.
Additionally, Prime Minister Barzani will participate in a special session at the energy forum titled “The Future of Energy and Power in the Kurdistan Region,” attended by Chris Wright, the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy. During this forum, the Prime Minister will present the Kurdistan Region’s ambitious vision for energy development and emphasize the various opportunities available for U.S. companies in this critical sector.
He is also scheduled to meet Secretary of State Marco Rubio this week.
