President Nechirvan Barzani awarded Italy's highest Order of the Star of Italy

In an event reflecting the partnership between Italy and the Iraqi Kurdistan Region, President Nechirvan Barzani was today awarded the insignia of the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Star of Italy (Cavaliere di Gran Croce dell'Ordine della Stella d'Italia). This is one of the greatest civilian honors that can be bestowed by the Italian Republic.

President Nechirvan Barzani receives his insignia

The Order was conferred by Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic, in recognition of President Nechirvan Barzani's contribution to strengthening the historic friendship and strategic relations between Italy, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. The award also pays testament to his steadfast leadership in promoting peace, regional stability, dialogue, religious and ethnic coexistence, and international cooperation.

At a ceremony held in Erbil today, Niccolò Fontana, Ambassador of Italy to the Republic of Iraq, presented the insignia and official diploma on behalf of President Mattarella. The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, religious leaders, and distinguished guests.

Receiving the Knight Grand Cross, the highest class of the Order of the Star of Italy, places President Nechirvan Barzani among a distinguished group of individuals recognized by the Italian Republic for those who have acquired special merit in the promotion of friendly relations and cooperation between Italy and other countries, and the promotion of ties with Italy.

President Nechirvan Barzani speaks at the event

A central pillar of President Nechirvan Barzani’s approach is his capacity for calm and warm outreach, particularly during times of intense political friction. He is known for communicating effectively, defusing hostile rhetoric through genuine understanding and respectful dialogue. By engaging conflicting parties with dignity rather than confrontation, his leadership has repeatedly overcome difficult deadlocks and resolved long-standing disputes, reinforcing his role as a consensus-builder.

The award also reflects Italy's appreciation for President Nechirvan Barzani's role in supporting democratic values, protecting the rich ethnic and religious diversity of the Kurdistan Region, and reinforcing its position as a model of peaceful coexistence in the Middle East. Through this inclusive vision, he continues to demonstrate that true stability is achieved through the patient cultivation of mutual respect.

Today's ceremony marks another milestone in the ongoing relationship between Italy and the Kurdistan Region. Built upon mutual respect, shared values, and close cooperation in diplomacy, security, humanitarian assistance, culture, education and economic development, this partnership continues to flourish.

This honor stands not only as a recognition of President Nechirvan Barzani's leadership but also as a tribute to the enduring friendship between the Italian Republic and the Kurdistan Region, reaffirming their shared commitment to peace, dialogue, and a prosperous future.