The United States officially opened its new Consulate General in Erbil, Iraq, during a ceremony attended by U.S. Deputy Secretary Rigas and several high-ranking officials from the Kurdistan Regional Government. The event marked what U.S. representatives described as a significant moment for American diplomatic presence in the region.
In his remarks, Deputy Secretary Rigas expressed appreciation for the support provided by local authorities. "Thank you for the warm welcome – I am grateful to be in Iraq at this pivotal moment and honored to join you today to officially open the new United States Consulate General in Erbil. My deep gratitude goes to the Kurdistan Regional Government and the people of Iraqi Kurdistan for their generous gift of land to build our new consulate."
He highlighted that the facility represents "the best in American architecture, engineering, and construction" and serves as evidence of ongoing cooperation between the United States and Iraqi Kurdistan.
Rigas also stated, "America’s investment in this new consulate provides a secure platform to advance the interests of the United States and demonstrates the value that a sovereign, secure, and prosperous Iraq – in mutually beneficial partnership with the United States – can deliver for its own people and for America."
He reiterated U.S. policy priorities under President Trump’s administration: "Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States is ushering the Middle East into an era of stability and prosperity. Iraq plays a crucial role in this effort, and the United States is committed to working closely with Iraqi partners to advance our common interests: safeguarding Iraqi sovereignty, defeating terrorism, bolstering regional stability, and strengthening our economic ties."
Deputy Secretary Rigas acknowledged ongoing security challenges faced by Iraq. He called on both Iraqi federal and Kurdish regional authorities "to meet this moment to disempower and dismantle Iran-aligned militias that continue to engage in violent and destabilizing activities," referencing a recent terrorist attack against Khor Mor.
On economic cooperation, he said: "President Trump has prioritized commerce over conflict. We actively support U.S. companies in Iraq and see the Iraqi Kurdistan Region as a dynamic entry point to Iraq’s markets for American companies." He noted efforts such as reopening of oil pipelines between Iraq and Türkiye have benefited both nations’ economies.
Additionally, Rigas underscored shared interests in protecting minority rights: "We also share a mutual interest in protecting the rights of religious and ethnic minorities in Iraq and Syria. There is no greater friend to religious freedom than the United States, and we will continue to lead with strength to protect religious liberty around the world."
He concluded by emphasizing that opening this new facility symbolizes America’s long-term commitment: "The building we inaugurate today is a testament to our commitment and is a physical symbol of America’s long-term partnership with Iraq and the Iraqi Kurdistan Region."