Zakho Official: Participation of Syrian Kurdistan Enriched “Shal & Shapik” Festival, Zakho Will Always Be Your Home
Welat TV – Erbil
The supervisor of the Zakho Autonomous Administration, Guhdar Sheikho, said that the participation of Syrian Kurdistan in the fourth edition of the Zakho International Festival for Kurdish Traditional Dress “Shal & Shapik” constituted a qualitative addition to the event, noting that its presence was remarkable at the level of intellectuals, artists, and the general public.
Sheikho stated in an interview with “Welat TV” during its coverage of the festival activities on Thursday, June 11, 2026, that the festival’s administration was keen to ensure the participation of Kurds from Syrian Kurdistan to give them the opportunity to present their culture, arts, and traditional Kurdish clothing.
He stressed that their participation significantly enriched the festival and strengthened its cultural and heritage character. He added that Zakho extends its gratitude to them for their participation, affirming that Kurdistan is their home and its doors are always open to them.
He also noted that the leadership of the Kurdistan Region has provided them with all possible support under various circumstances and will continue to stand by them. Sheikho pointed out that he maintains strong relations with Kurds from Syrian Kurdistan, noting that they have played an important role and contributed significantly to the reconstruction of Zakho city, stressing that the people of the city will always remain supportive of and appreciative of their efforts.
He also extended greetings from Zakho to Qamishlo, calling on Kurds to trust that the people of Kurdistan will always stand by them, adding that victory and success will ultimately belong to the Kurds and Kurdistan, as repeatedly emphasized by President Masoud Barzani.
In another part of his remarks, Sheikho said that President Barzani’s participation in the festival gave organizers strong positive momentum and encouraged greater attention to the festival and its cultural message, particularly in preserving Kurdish heritage, culture, arts, and traditional dress.
He explained that the “Shal & Shapik” festival is a Kurdistan-wide cultural event organized across different regions of Kurdistan, with participation from international guests as well, which further enhances its cultural and civilizational significance.
Sheikho noted that this year’s edition was more organized and expansive compared to previous years, reflecting the continuous development of the festival and the efforts made to expand participation and ensure its success.
The fourth edition of the “Shal & Shapik” International Kurdish Fashion Festival officially opened on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in the city of Zakho in the Kurdistan Region, with broad official and cultural attendance and the participation of delegations and figures from various parts of Kurdistan.