DECEMBER 17, 2024 — The Kurdistan Region in Iraq commemorated Flag Day with ceremonies today, reports Shafaq News.
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and President Nechirvan Barzani used the occasion to urge unity, resilience, and political cooperation.
During a ceremony at the Erbil Citadel, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani emphasized the Kurdistan flag as a symbol of struggle and unity, encouraging all citizens to uphold it, says Kurdistan 24.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from various religious and national groups within Kurdistan. In his remarks, Prime Minister Barzani stressed that the region faces rapid changes and complex developments. He called on political forces to overcome differences and unite to protect the homeland.
President Nechirvan Barzani, speaking at another Flag Day event, echoed these sentiments, urging political parties to cooperate in addressing regional tensions. He reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to peace, stability, and dialogue with Iraqi, regional, and international stakeholders.
“It is our duty and responsibility to protect peace and stability, which remain our top priorities,” he said.
Flag Day celebrations took place across Kurdistan’s provinces, including official ceremonies in Erbil and Al-Sulaymaniyah. In Al-Sulaymaniyah, Governor Haval Abu Bakr, alongside local officials and cultural figures, participated in events honoring the flag’s symbolism.
Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani noted on X that the Kurdistan flag represents “peace, coexistence, steadfastness, and sacrifice.”
The Kurdistan flag, consisting of red, green, and white stripes with a golden sun at the center, was first adopted in 1945 when it was raised over Mahabad in Iranian Kurdistan. Each color carries symbolic meaning: red for revolution and courage, green for the region’s natural beauty, white for peace, and the golden sun for freedom and light.
The Kurdistan Parliament designated December 17th as Flag Day in 2009.
Image: Shafaq News