Erbil Governor Welcomes British Ambassador to Iraq at Historic Machko Cafe
ERBIL — On the morning of Wednesday, June 25, 2025, Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw welcomed Mr. Irfan Siddiq, the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Iraq, and the British Consul in Erbil. The meeting took place at the historic Machko Cultural Cafe.
The Governor welcomed the delegation and congratulated Ambassador Mr. Irfan Siddiq on his new appointment. He expressed his hope that the authorities in Baghdad would view the Kurdistan Region with due regard, noting that for years, Baghdad has attempted to create obstacles to the legitimate rights of the people of Kurdistan and has shown political resentment towards the region. Governor added that while the region was a key partner in building the new Iraq, the federal authorities are committing injustice against the livelihoods of the Kurdistan Region's civil servants and citizens. Despite these challenges, he affirmed, the Kurdistan Regional Government remains committed to reconstruction, development, and strengthening its diplomatic channels with the international community.
During the friendly meeting, the British Ambassador expressed his support for the Governor's remarks and affirmed his backing for the legitimate rights of the people of Kurdistan.The discussion also touched upon the ancient civilization of Erbil, as well as the city's security, prosperity, and urban expansion.
Another focus of the meeting was the latest political developments in the wider region, the multifaceted events in Iraq specifically, and the future of ongoing changes.
In closing, Ambassador Siddiq thanked the Governor for his hospitality and expressed his admiration for the beautiful view of the Citadel and the vibrancy of the historic Qaysari Bazaar. A central theme of their discussion was the enhancement of diplomatic and cultural relations between both sides. The meeting concluded by reaffirming the importance of strengthening the long-standing friendship between the United Kingdom and the Kurdistan Region.
