President Nechirvan Barzani receives the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Star of Italy

On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, President Nechirvan Barzani was awarded the rank of Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Star of Italy.

The event was attended by the Italian Consul General in the Kurdistan Region, along with representatives from the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, several diplomatic envoys, and other guests. The award was presented to President Nechirvan Barzani by Mr. Niccolò Fontana, the Italian Ambassador to Iraq, on behalf of President Sergio Mattarella.
 

In his address, the Italian Ambassador remarked: “This award recognizes the distinctive political stance of President Nechirvan Barzani and his pivotal contribution to strengthening relations, as well as his ongoing commitment to dialogue and peace, his support for Italian companies operating in Erbil, the establishment and elevation of the Italian Consulate General in Erbil, and the comprehensive support and assistance provided to Italian military forces and archaeological teams operating in the Kurdistan Region.”
 

The Italian Ambassador stated that the ceremony reflects Italy’s friendship with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, of which President Nechirvan Barzani is a prominent advocate. He commended the pragmatic leadership of the President of the Kurdistan Region and expressed hope that both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region would continue to thrive under his leadership.
 

In his address, President Nechirvan Barzani conveyed his profound gratitude and pride in receiving the honor and extended his appreciation to the President, Government, and people of Italy. He noted that the occasion reflects the historical and enduring ties between Italy, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region and serves as recognition of all those who have contributed to developing and strengthening these relations.
 

In a statement, the President emphasized that they highly value Italy’s military assistance and training for the Region's security forces, which has played a crucial role in strengthening the capabilities of the Peshmerga. Beyond the military aspect, Nechirvan Barzani highlighted Italy's significant role in the civil and cultural sectors, stating that the country has been a key partner in preserving heritage and culture in the Kurdistan Region.
 

These efforts are viewed as part of Italy's strategy to protect the region's identity and history while simultaneously ensuring security and stability. This expression of gratitude comes at a time when Italy, as an active member of the International Coalition, maintains robust diplomatic and security ties with Erbil.
Through its military teams and cultural projects, the Italian government continues to support the Kurdistan Region, signaling the depth of the relationship between the two nations and the importance of the Kurdistan Region within Rome's foreign policy framework.