Russia opens consulate in Kurdistan Iraq

Source: Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)

Russia opens consulate in Kurdistan Iraq

IRBIL, Nov 28 (KUNA) -- The Russian Federation opened on Wednesday its consulate in Irbil, regional capital of Kurdistan Iraq, in a move to boost Russian's diplomatic presence in Iraq. Russia is also planning to open another consulate in Iraqi southern city of Basra in the near future.

Russian Ambassador to Iraq said in an opening ceremony in Irbil that they are witnessing an historic step, noting that such move comes after long negotiations between the Russian and Iraqi governments.

The Russian Ambassador also unveiled Russian's intensions in opening another consulate in Basra, adding that after the signing of memorandum of understanding between the two governments, and in turn, Iraq will be able to open its own consulates in Russia's various cities.

The Ambassador added the Russian government can participate in Iraq's rebuilding efforts, include the use of Russia's capability in the technological and science fields. <snip> This is a new phase in relations with Russia and confirmation of trust regarding the Iraqi and Kurdistan governments, Barzani said.

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Read more: http://www.kuna.net.kw/home/Story.aspx?Language=en&DSNO=1043838

US Deputy Secretary of State on sudden visit to N. Iraq

IRBIL, Nov 28 (KUNA) -- US Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte arrived Wednesday evening in Irbil northern Iraq, an Iraqi Kurdish source said.

The source who asked not to be named told KUNA, Negroponte arrived in Salah Edin province on a sudden visit to region and met with governor of Irbil Nechirvan Barzani.

The two sides discussed Kurdistan new role in the region and tensions between the region and Turkey, along with other issues regarding Iraq's future, the source added.

http://www.kuna.net.kw/home/Story.aspx?Language=en&DSNO=1043861

I wonder if one of the "other issues" inspiring the sudden visit is the Kurdish decision to cozy up to Russian.

Russia wants oil. Hope the Russians don't get greased by the Turk invasion lol