Gulf states' ties with Iraqi Kurdistan face limits

Significance Amid a tightening of control by the Iraqi central government, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), particularly the ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), is attempting to enhance diplomatic relations with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, open new export markets with them and attract inward investment. Impacts If Iraqi Kurdistan is included in the Development Road project it will significantly boost GCC trade and investment flows with the KRI. Improved relations between Turkey and Gulf countries will benefit the KDP, which allegedly helped foster the rapprochement. The next generation of Iraqi Kurdish leaders will build on relations with GCC leaders. The lack of a common GCC strategy on the KRI will curtail investment and trade opportunities.