ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The two leaders focused on enhancing bilateral ties between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, with particular emphasis on the Kurdistan Region. Their discussions aimed at exploring avenues to bolster cooperation and promote development and prosperity for their populations. UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also participated in the talks.
Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani revisited the longstanding connection linking the UAE with Iraq and its Kurdistan Region. According to official accounts, they explored possibilities for expanding collaboration across various sectors. Additionally, the leaders addressed issues of mutual concern and regional developments. These discussions took place as Middle Eastern governments continue to prioritize security and stability amid rising regional tensions.
Both parties reiterated the significance of supporting security, stability, and enduring peace throughout the Middle East, emphasizing that such efforts should benefit the region’s populations. The Kurdistan Regional Government noted that both sides condemned recent attacks on the UAE. The official account stated that the leaders affirmed the necessity of maintaining peace and security while deliberating on regional developments.
UAE and Kurdistan Region Seek to Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation
Abu Dhabi hosted a high-level gathering that included senior UAE officials alongside Sheikh Mohamed, Barzani, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. Among the attendees was Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan was also present. The presence of other senior officials from the UAE leadership and government underscored the importance of this high-profile meeting.
This encounter marked the continuation of direct discussions between Sheikh Mohamed and the Kurdistan Region’s prime minister in 2026. Earlier, on February 3, Sheikh Mohamed hosted Barzani in Abu Dhabi during his visit to participate in the World Governments Summit in Dubai. That meeting also focused on the UAE-Iraq relationship, cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, and regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Leadership Focuses on Regional Stability and Development
In the February discussions, the leaders examined cooperation initiatives that could advance growth and stability in the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. They also reviewed agenda items from the upcoming World Governments Summit and exchanged perspectives on regional and global developments. The September meeting continued the official dialogue between the UAE leadership and the Kurdistan Regional Government, with a focus on bilateral cooperation and regional stability.
The recent gathering reaffirmed the existing official ties between the UAE and Iraq, notably including engagement with the Kurdistan Region. Both parties concentrated on practical collaboration and the regional security environment, without announcing new agreements during the session. Their public statements highlighted intentions to strengthen relations, enhance cooperation across sectors, and continue supporting regional peace. The discussions concluded with senior representatives from both sides actively participating in the Abu Dhabi talks.