Iraqi Kurdistan PM Barzani backs cautious engagement with Syria’s new rulers
Speaking at an Al-Monitor Global Institute Event in Washington, Masrour Barzani urged Kurdish unity and said Damascus must prove it can lead a divided Syria.
WASHINGTON — Prime Minister of Iraq’s Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), Masrour Barzani, said on Thursday that the new government in neighboring Syria should be given an opportunity to unite the country, but cautioned that the road ahead remains difficult amid ongoing talks between Syrian Kurds and Damascus.
Barzani spoke at the Al-Monitor Global Institute’s event entitled “The Future of Power and Energy in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq,” which additionally featured US Energy Secretary Chris Wright. Barzani was interviewed by Al-Monitor’s chief correspondent, Amberin Zaman.
Syrian government 'deserves a chance'
The prime minister addressed the situation in neighboring Syria, saying the country is going through “challenging times.” He said the new government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former fighter with al-Qaeda, should be able to prove it can run the country.
