Life in the Middle East is very unpredictable, and this year was no different. Elections are coming up in the Kurdistan Region (KRI), and the original date for the start of the official election campaigns has been moved from 16^th September to 25^th September. That is, to the exact day of our reception. Based on experience in terms of participation, we have seen a much weaker turnout this year with guests from Sulaymaniyah and Halabja governorates. Despite this fact, the reception was attended by approximately three hundred guests who accepted our invitation.   

Among the guests were ministers of the Kurdistan Regional Government, representatives of the diplomatic corps, international organisations and NGOs, including those with a Czech footprint, and last but not least representatives of the private sector. As in previous years, the national anthems were performed live by young Kurdish violinists Mr. Reman Salar and Ms. Maryam Nabeel.  

In his speech, the Consul General thanked everyone present for accepting our invitation. He recalled the historical line between the Czech Republic and the KRI. Activities related to economic and public diplomacy. He did not forget to mention the projects in which the Czech Republic is actively involved and highlighted the potential that lies in future mutual cooperation. H.E. Mr. Rebar Ahmed, Minister of the Interior of the KRI, spoke on behalf of the KRI, who was also acting "Minister" of Foreign Affairs of the Kurdistan Regional Government. He too gave a reminder of the historical relations between our two nations and highlighted our mutual cooperation.

Organizing these social-protocol events is not only about diplomatic courtesy and showing mutual respect for the host country and strengthening mutual diplomatic relations with like-minded countries within the EU, and NATO. It is a unique opportunity to hold many informal conversations across the entire social spectrum of the KRI. Whether from the public sector or the private sector. And this was no different at this reception. At the end of the reception, each guest was able to take away a small gift of a "test" banknote, which was made from a new substrate, fully recyclable, eco-friendly colours and with new security features. A very unique gift.          

Czech CG Erbil would like to thank all the partners who contributed to the reception. Without their support, no public diplomacy event could take place here.

Shereen, Vara, Bahozi Bahar Co, Dekonta, A. N. T., A. P. C., Shoof, Vitreum by Electromall, Budweiser Budvar, Státní tiskárna cenin, s.p., Divan hotel, Raid, and the city of Litomyšl.

Czech CG Erbil has long supported the climate project: MILLION OAKS.