On November 12, 2025, the city of Sulaymaniyah officially became a sister city of Yiwu, in the People’s Republic of China. This event is a significant step in strengthening Sulaymaniyah’s international relations and expanding its role as a gateway for the economic development of both the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.
An official delegation from Sulaymaniyah, headed by Dr. Haval Abubakr, Governor of Sulaymaniyah, included Ms. Khelan from the Sulaymaniyah Governorate, Dr. Osman, representative of Sulaimani University, and Mr. Aram Baban, representative of the Sulaimani Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The agreement was signed between the two cities in the presence of the Mayor of Yiwu and representatives of the Yiwu Municipal Government.
This agreement establishes a framework for cooperation in multiple sectors, including higher education, trade, agriculture, culture, health, tourism, and technology, while fostering mutual understanding and cultural exchange. It is also expected to enhance academic collaboration between Sulaimani University and other universities in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq with their Chinese counterparts.
It is worth mentioning that the President Jalal Talabani Foundation facilitated for the completion of this initiative. Dr. Muhammad Sabir, President of the Foundation, contributed notably to the coordination efforts and the procedures required to obtain the approval of the Chinese Consulate. Appreciation is also extended to Ambassador Shorsh Khalid Said and the representatives of the Kurdistan Regional Government — Mr. Abdul Karim Uzairi, Mr. Wasfi Khalid, and Mr. Nawzad Ghafour, President of the Sulaimani Chamber of Commerce and Industry — as well as to the companies and merchants whose contributions ensured the success of this endeavor.
Sulaymaniyah continues its efforts to strengthen economic and cultural position in both the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Federal Government of Iraq. The sister city agreement with Yiwu is a strategic partnership that is relevant to Sulaymaniyah’s vision to promote investment, innovation, and cross-cultural cooperation inspired by China’s long-standing experience and success.
The President Jalal Talabani Foundation commends all parties involved in this achievement and reaffirms its commitment to supporting initiatives that foster dialogue, international cooperation, and sustainable development.