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A Conversation with the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Minister of Interior Rebar Ahmed

Date: Wednesday, June 14, 2023 / Time: 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT

Center: Middle East North Africa Center

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The Kurdistan Region and Iraq overall are at the heart of changes in the Middle East amid a wider global transition toward a multi-polar world. Eyes are on Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and his government as they tackle immediate and chronic governance, economic, security and climate change issues. Key among them are dynamics between Erbil and Baghdad on energy and government powers, much-needed economic reforms, security challenges related to water scarcity, and the human legacies of the conflict with ISIS. As it seeks internal stability, Iraq has been integrating into the region and helping with de-escalation, hosting Iran-Saudi and other dialogues.

The Kurdistan Region has been a key part of U.S. interests and engagement in the Middle East and Iraq on matters of domestic and regional stability — including strong diplomatic ties, partnership on fighting ISIS in Iraq and Syria, and now cooperation on clean energy and adapting to climate change. 

On June 14, USIP and the American University of Kurdistan hosted a discussion with the Kurdistan Regional Government Minister of Interior Rebar Ahmed on a wide range of issues pertaining to the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, including Erbil-Baghdad relations; economic reforms and the need to diversify beyond oil; the response to climate change and preventing related instability; the inclusion of women, youth, and ethnic and religious minorities; the fight against ISIS and its human legacies in al-Hol Camp and beyond; and the impact of de-escalations and the rise of China’s role in the Middle East.

Take part in the conversation on Twitter using #RebarAhmedAtUSIP.

Speakers

His Excellency Rebar Ahmed 
Minister of Interior, Kurdistan Regional Government

Mona Yacoubian, welcoming remarks 
Vice President, Middle East and North Africa, U.S. Institute of Peace

Sarhang Hamasaeed, moderator 
Director, Middle East Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

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