Erbil governor, Istanbul mayor eye stronger relations

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The governor of Erbil and mayor of Istanbul met in Paris, France, on Thursday, stressing their intention to improve bilateral relations. 

Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw’s office said in a statement on Thursday that he met with Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu on the sidelines of a climate change conference as part of the 2024 Olympics in the French capital.

Both sides “emphasized the further bolstering and development of Kurdistan Region and Turkey relations and Erbil and Istanbul ties,” the statement read . 

Khoshnaw invited Imamoglu to Erbil and the Turkish mayor reciprocated the invitation.

Imamoglu is a prominent figure from the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP). 

The Erbil governor has made several visits to Kurdish provinces of Turkey in a bid to enhance cultural and economic relations. 

Kurdistan Region and Turkey enjoy strong economic ties.