Italy awards President Barzani major state honor

Shafaq News- Erbil (Updated at 21:48)

Kurdistan Region (KRI) President Nechirvan Barzani received Italy’s Order of the Star on Wednesday, one of the country’s highest honors, in recognition of his efforts to promote stability in the region.

Italy’s ambassador to Iraq and representative of the Italian president, Niccolo Fontana, presented the order during an official ceremony in Erbil, Shafaq News correspondent reported.

Speaking at the ceremony, Barzani thanked Italy’s government and people for their “continued support” for the Kurdistan Region, particularly their assistance in reorganizing and reforming the Peshmerga forces.

He also highlighted Rome’s contributions to civilian and cultural fields, describing Italy as a key partner in preserving the KRI’s heritage and identity.

The Order of the Star of Italy is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to strengthening Italy's relations with other countries in areas including diplomacy, security, culture, the economy and humanitarian work, rather than solely based on the recipient's official position.

Previous recipients of the Knight Grand Cross rank include former Costa Rican Vice President Alfio Piva, former Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Fouad Twal, former Monaco Minister of State Michel Roger, former San Marino Foreign Minister Nicola Renzi, and Turkish businessman Rahmi Koç.