Jack Gebhard, Senior Parliamentary Assistant to Andrew Snowden MP, shares his reflections on the delegation.
Erbil, Kurdistan Regional Government
During our recent visit to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRG), we had the distinct privilege of meeting with His Excellency Masoud Barzani, the former President of the KRG and a highly influential political figure in Kurdish politics, as well as the current Prime Minister, Masrour Barzani. These high-level meetings offered a rare and invaluable opportunity to hear firsthand from the region’s senior leadership about the complex set of challenges and emerging opportunities currently shaping the future of the KRG. Both leaders were generous with their time and forthright in their assessments, offering a candid perspective that went well beyond diplomatic talking points.
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in particular struck a tone of pragmatism, demonstrating a realistic understanding of the region’s economic, political, and security context. He emphasized the urgent need for sustained international engagement, specifically highlighting the potential for enhanced economic cooperation with the United Kingdom. Masrour made a direct appeal to members of the delegation, encouraging them to facilitate dialogue between British oil companies and the KRG’s Ministry of Natural Resources. He underscored Erbil’s willingness to work constructively with international partners, independent of the often strained relations between the KRG and Baghdad. His focus was not only on hydrocarbons but also on broader investment opportunities in infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism, indicating a forward-looking vision for economic diversification.
Our meeting with Safeen Dizayee, Head of the Department of Foreign Relations and former Foreign Affairs Spokesman, also left a strong impression. Safeen articulated a clear and ambitious vision for the role of soft power in Kurdish diplomacy. He outlined initiatives that aim to elevate the cultural and sporting profile of the Kurdistan Region, both within the region and internationally. He argued persuasively that cultural diplomacy and public engagement—through music, cinema, sports, and heritage—can help challenge outdated perceptions of the Kurdish people and assert a more positive, modern identity on the global stage. Delegation members responded positively, expressing a willingness to explore partnerships around arts and sports exchanges.
Safeen also placed particular emphasis on the importance of maintaining strong connections with the Kurdish diaspora. He highlighted the recent success of the Newroz celebration in Cologne, which drew thousands of participants and served as a vibrant demonstration of national pride and cultural resilience. Events such as these, he noted, are not only celebrations but powerful tools for advocacy, community-building, and international solidarity.
Rojava, Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria
In the autonomous region of North and East Syria, our meetings with local representatives revealed a consistent and clear message: there is a shared aspiration for a future Syrian state that is democratic, pluralistic, and fundamentally decentralized. This vision was echoed across several meetings and reflects a pragmatic recognition of Syria’s multi-ethnic, multi-religious social fabric.
The region remains hamstrung by Western sanctions on Syrian oil exports, leaving little else by way of industry to drive economic growth. Without investment from the major producers, oil that is presently extracted is done so using antiquated equipment, and outdated methods. There is a clear desire for the sanctions to be lifted, however this will only come when the new regime demonstrates its commitment to democratisation and adherence to human rights. Unrelated to the delegation’s visit, sanctions on 12 Syrian entities, including the defence and interior ministries, were lifted shortly afterwards.
We also met with internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Afrin, many of whom shared heartbreaking stories of loss, displacement, and resilience. Despite the hardships they continue to face, their overwhelming desire is to return to their homes—with proper security guarantees. Their stories underscored a desire for justice and for a peace that includes the right of return and accountability for past atrocities.
There remains a degree of scepticism and caution among local leaders regarding the future of the Syrian peace process. Concerns were raised over recent attacks on minority communities, including Alawites, which has further unsettled already vulnerable populations.
Even General Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces, offered only cautious optimism about ongoing negotiations. While he expressed hope for a political resolution, he also made it clear that his forces remain ready to defend their territory and people if necessary.