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The BBC's Maryam Moshiri In Conversation with Prime Minister Barzani

"We looked at cutting the government's expenditure as a fundamental part of the reform process. It will take some time until the results emerge but we have already started to see significant progress. Alongside this, we are diversifying our economy. Kurdistan is exporting agricultural goods to the Gulf and to Europe. This is unprecedented and has resulted in an increase in revenues from non-oil sectors. This is a transformational process, a revolutionary process that transforms Kurdistan into a position where it is no longer relying on oil revenues."

–– H.E. Prime Minister Barzani

Keynote Remarks from H.E. Fuad Hussein, Iraq's Foreign Minister

"In this context, we would like to remind you that regional cooperation should be considered as the main objective for the countries of the region in order to put an end to tensions and crisis. This is why Iraq is adopting a clear foreign policy based on having common views. At the international level, the government of Iraq is keen on preserving the international partnerships and to establishing the best regional relationship based on mutual respect – the respect of interest. We are also relying on the fraternity and the social links with the countries of the region so that we can face all together international challenges in light of the circumstances we are going through when it comes to conflicts and crises that necessitate unifying all efforts in order to face them and solve them in a peaceful way."

–– H.E. Fuad Hussein, Iraq's Foreign Minister

Experts Reflect on the Emerging International Order

"While great power competition draws focus, "great power distraction" from other critical issues may lead to unforeseen consequences. There is a need for greater attention to international concerns; China sees a momentum, a strategic opportunity for multipolarity in the world for it to take its place in the world system and to advance its interests. States in the Middle East should safeguard their sovereignty and self-reliance and must only diversify their ties to global powers if this approach is underscored with strategic autonomy."

–– Experts

Experts Reflect on Security Sector Reform and Armed Groups

"Ultimately, processes of democratization require armed groups to put down the weapons, stop monopolizing economies, and that even when they believe they fought for their people, it is time to subject themselves to accountability and a process of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration. Conversely, organisations like Al-Qaeda and ISIS, while degraded, remain a chameleon-like force, capable of reviving under conducive circumstances."