In an influential gathering organized by the Centre for Kurdish Progress at the residence of Speaker of the House of Commons Lindsay Hoyle MP, the United Kingdom Parliament joined hands with Kurdish friends to celebrate Newroz, the Kurdish New Year. Amidst the festive atmosphere, Mr. Shifa Barzani, the General Supervisor of the Kurdistan Diaspora Confederation, delivered a stirring speech that resonated with the audience, highlighting the diversity and resilience of the Kurdish people.
Mr. Barzani welcomed guests, including 150 Members of the UK Parliament, and expressed his deep appreciation for the UK people and government’s continued support. In his speech, which he delivered on behalf of President Masoud, Mr Barzani stressed that Newroz is not only a Kurdish tradition but also a symbol of victory over oppression, which is celebrated by many nations around the world.
Mr. Barzani eloquently conveyed the essence of Newroz as a testament to the Kurdish people’s eternal struggle for freedom and justice. Drawing parallels between Newroz and the global pursuit of liberty, he underscored the importance of solidarity and friendship in confronting contemporary challenges faced by the Kurdish community.
Highlighting the diverse fabric of Kurdish society, Mr. Barzani shared a powerful anecdote from his village of Barzan, situated along the shores of the Great Zab River. He portrayed Barzan as a microcosm of coexistence, where Christians, Jews, and Muslims have historically lived harmoniously, transcending ethnic, racial, and religious differences.
Addressing the esteemed members of the United Kingdom Parliament, Mr. Barzani called upon their assistance in advocating for the rights and freedoms of the Kurdish people. He emphasized the pivotal role of the UK, as one of the oldest democracies, in fostering understanding, dialogue, and cooperation on the global stage.
With heartfelt conviction, Mr. Barzani implored the guests to support Kurdistan’s vision of peace, justice, and coexistence. He envisioned Kurdistan as a beacon of hope for the entire Middle East, where diversity is celebrated, and differences are embraced without prejudice.
Mr. Barzani’s impassioned plea echoed across generations, transcending borders and ideologies. His message of unity, resilience, and hope resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the shared commitment to a world where all cultures are respected and justice prevails. As the celebration of Newroz concluded, the spirit of solidarity and friendship lingered, fostering renewed determination to uphold the values of freedom and democracy for all.
KDC