Prime Minister Inaugurates Third Middle East Tourism Exhibition METEX 2025 in Erbil
The Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government, Masrour Barzani, today, Tuesday, May 6, 2025, inaugurated the Third Middle East Tourism Exhibition in Erbil, with wide participation from local and international tourism companies, and the attendance of diplomats and representatives of consulates and foreign companies, whom the Prime Minister gave a special welcome.
In his speech, the Prime Minister stressed that the Middle East Tourism Exhibition in Erbil represents a turning point towards advancing the tourism sector in the Kurdistan Region. He explained that promoting the Region's economy and diversifying its resources, alongside revitalizing tourism activity in both its public and private sectors, is at the top of the priorities in the Regional Government's strategy and orientations. He emphasized that the combined efforts of the government and the private sector are capable of pushing this vital sector forward towards more progress and prosperity. The Prime Minister also spoke about the government's initiatives in recent years, which have been dedicated to utilizing all avenues to develop the tourism sector, aimed at diversifying income sources across the Kurdistan Region. Furthermore, he reiterated the government's ongoing commitment to prioritizing all other sectors that are fundamental to the Region’s path towards economic revitalization.
In his speech, the Prime Minister also pointed to the necessity of redoubling efforts aimed at providing advanced and appropriate services, with the goal of encouraging tourists and visitors, whether from within Kurdistan or from outside, to explore the depths of the treasures it holds and the attractions it abounds with.
The Prime Minister highlighted the unique advantages of the Kurdistan Region, whether on the historical and cultural levels, or with regard to its social components that embody the essence of coexistence between different religions and nationalities, not to mention the charm of its captivating nature. He extended his gratitude to the exhibition's organizers and participating companies, affirming that such efforts, when coupled with government backing, would yield significant benefits for the people of Kurdistan.
The Prime Minister also remarked that while previous efforts centered on showcasing the Kurdish national identity and the hardships endured by the people of Kurdistan. However, he stressed that the time has now come to showcase the bright face of the Kurdistan Region, with its rich cultural heritage and the peaceful coexistence among its religious and ethnic components. He explained that advancing the tourism sector represents the optimal way to enable the world to get to know the true nature of Kurdistan and its people up close.
The Prime Minister then detailed the government's comprehensive vision for boosting the tourism sector, highlighting several strategic pillars. He explained this vision includes a focus on showcasing the unique geographical features and breathtaking natural diversity of each region in Kurdistan. Emphasis will also be placed on the Region's rich historical heritage, particularly landmarks like the Erbil Citadel—one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities—with a call for the reconstruction and maintenance of archaeological sites. A third key element, the Prime Minister noted, involves significantly upgrading tourism services by modernizing hotels, restaurants, and other essential facilities to provide contemporary hospitality that reflects Kurdistan's renowned generosity and warmth.
The Prime Minister also unveiled a package of significant government projects currently underway, which he said would lay the groundwork for similar private sector initiatives in the tourism field. He emphasized the importance of these developments encompassing the entire Kurdistan Region without exception. Furthermore, he added that bolstering the tourism sector and attracting international tourists would significantly contribute to creating promising job opportunities for youth and providing essential support to the private sector, thereby advancing the Region's journey towards greater growth and prosperity.
Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister once again welcomed all attendees, wishing them continued success and expressing his hope for the enduring prosperity of Kurdistan.
