Strengthening Ties: KRG High Representative Meets Scottish Conservative Leaders

News : 2/12/2025

During a recent visit to Scotland, Karwan Jamal Tahir, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) High Representative to the UK, engaged in productive discussions with Russell Findlay, Leader of the Scottish Conservative Party, and Pam Gosal, Deputy Leader and Minister for Investment in the Shadow Cabinet.

In the meeting, Mr. Tahir provided an overview of the Kurdistan Region’s constitutional status within the Federal Republic of Iraq. He discussed the current political and economic landscape in both Kurdistan and the wider region, addressing key challenges such as budget allocations, salary distribution, Article 140, and other unresolved issues affecting the Kurdistan Region.

Recognising Scotland's significant role within the UK, Mr. Tahir explored avenues to strengthen ties between the Kurdistan Region and Scotland, particularly in economic, cultural, and developmental sectors. He emphasised the potential benefits of utilising Scottish expertise to enhance bilateral cooperation.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of fostering parliamentary ties through knowledge sharing and collaboration between the Kurdistan and Scottish parliaments. The KRG High Representative acknowledged the essential contributions of the Kurdish diaspora in Scotland to political, organisational, and economic development within Scottish society.

Both Russell Findlay and Pam Gosal welcomed the meeting, noting the many similarities between Scotland and the Kurdistan Region. They expressed a shared commitment to expanding cooperation in various areas, including parliamentary affairs, higher education, economic development, agriculture, and industry. Furthermore, they pledged to advocate for the formation of a parliamentary cross-party group for the Kurdistan Region after the upcoming Scottish parliamentary elections.

Both leaders highlighted the significance of continued engagement to encourage Scottish businesses, particularly in energy, technology, and agriculture, to strengthen trade relations with the Kurdistan Region.

On the topic of cultural exchange, both parties recognised the value of deeper cultural ties and extended an invitation to the KRG Representation in the UK to participate in the annual Edinburgh Cultural Festival, held every August.

In conclusion, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening relations and ensuring ongoing coordination for mutual benefit.