Fostering Economic Collaboration at the France-Kurdistan Forum

Paris, September 23rd 2024

The France-Kurdistan Economic Forum, held in Paris at MEDEF Headquarters , marked a transformative step in advancing the economic relationship between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and France. Organized in collaboration with the KRG Board of Investment, MEDEF International and with the support of the Consulate General of the Republic of France, the forum brought together high-ranking officials, industry leaders, and key stakeholders from both Kurdistan Region and France. This landmark event aimed to explore avenues for trade, investment, and sustainable collaboration, setting the stage for a new era of economic partnership.

The forum began with inspiring remarks from distinguished leaders. Mr. Philippe Gautier, CEO of MEDEF International, emphasized the forum's role in fostering deeper economic connections between France and Kurdistan. Mr. Ludovic Pouille, Director for Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, highlighted France’s longstanding recognition of Kurdistan’s critical role in the Middle East. H.E. Mr. Safeen Dizayee, Minister for Foreign Relations of the KRG, reiterated Kurdistan’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and fostering sustainable economic growth.

The forum featured three dynamic panel discussions, each spotlighting a critical area for economic collaboration:

•  The first panel, Exploring Industry Potential in Kurdistan, featured H.E. Kamal Muslim Saeed, Minister of Trade and Industry, who outlined the region’s industrial capabilities. Mr. Jerome Degueurce, Chairman of Cleia, shared insights on applying France’s industrial expertise, while Dr. Ahmed Al-Sadoon, CEO of Biotech, emphasized the role of innovation in transforming the industrial sector.

• The second panel, Unlocking Investment Potential in Kurdistan: A Focus on Sustainable Urbanization, included H.E. Dr. Mohammed Shukri, Chairman of the KRG Board of Investment, who discussed investment opportunities in urban development. Mr. Gérard Wolf from MEDEF International showcased France’s sustainable urbanization solutions, while Mr. Hicham Antoine Menhem CEO of CERCIS and Mr. Daban Hamid, CEO of KRD Holding explored joint opportunities in infrastructure and urban planning.

• The third panel on Enhancing Regional Agriculture in Kurdistan spotlighted H.E. Ms. Begard Talabani, Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources, presenting the region’s agricultural vision. Dr. Akaam Kamal Executive Director of Halabja Group highlighted technological advancements, and Ms. Siham Bouchenak-Talet, Regional Advisor for Agriculture at France’s Ministry of Agriculture, emphasized sustainable farming practices.

Strategic Agreements and Networking

One of the forum's key highlights was the signing of a contract and memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Galiawa Group and Cleia to establish an eco-friendly brick manufacturing facility in Erbil. This initiative reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and is expected to create significant job opportunities while reducing environmental impact.

The forum also provided a valuable platform for prominent Kurdish companies, including Galiawa Group, Kar Group, Cihan Group, KH Company, Qaiwan Group, Hewa Group, Dutch Flower, Darin Group, Kavin Group, Aryo Group, Halabja Group, London Sky, Fly Erbil, Ulker, Dream City, Liza Tourism, and Visit Kurdistan, to showcase their capabilities. These companies actively engaged with French investors, laying the groundwork for long-term collaborations and access to international markets.

Inspiring Leadership

Throughout the forum, leaders reinforced a shared vision of economic growth and strategic collaboration. Mr. Ludovic Pouille reiterated France’s commitment to fostering partnerships with Kurdistan. Mr. Philippe Gautier praised the event as a cornerstone for strengthening ties between the two regions. H.E. Dr. Mohammed Shukri highlighted the KRG’s efforts to create a business-friendly environment and unlock opportunities across vital sectors.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Yann Braem, Consul General of France in Erbil, Mr. Ali Dolamari, KRG Representative to France, and Mr. Alexis Andres, Deputy Director of the MENA Division. 

A Future of Mutual Prosperity

The France-Kurdistan Economic Forum served as a vital platform for exploring the potential of Kurdistan’s industries and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships. By highlighting key sectors, facilitating strategic agreements, and enabling meaningful networking, the event showcased the region’s readiness to engage with global markets.

This forum underscored the commitment of both Kurdistan and France to sustainable development and economic prosperity, laying the foundation for continued collaboration and shared growth.