Libyan Traveler Applauds Erbil’s Remarkable Transformation

Libyan traveler Nouri Fonas praised Erbil’s transformation during his first visit to Iraq, noting its remarkable progress and modern infrastructure. He found the local society warm and welcoming while exploring significant historical sites in Baghdad, Najaf, and Karbala. Fonas expressed particular admiration for the beauty of Zakho’s mountains, contrasting them with other famous mountain ranges he has trekked.

Nouri Fonas, a Libyan traveler, expressed admiration for the significant transformation of Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, during his visit. He remarked on the remarkable development, infrastructure, and organization he observed, stating that such modernization would have been unimaginable two decades prior. This trip marked Fonas’ inaugural venture into Iraq, where he felt a swift sense of belonging among the welcoming Iraqi populace.

Fonas’s exploration included notable historical landmarks like Baghdad’s Al-Mustansiriya School and the ancient ruins of Babil. He continued his journey to the sacred cities of Najaf and Karbala before reaching the Kurdistan Region, where he visited the historic Erbil Citadel. As an experienced traveler who has scaled the Himalayas in India and Mount Fuji in Japan, Fonas was particularly enchanted by the majestic mountains of Zakho, asserting, “I have seen many of the world’s great mountain ranges, but nothing compares to the beauty of Zakho’s mountains.”

Entering Iraq via the Ibrahim Khalil border crossing, Fonas’s remarkable travel route extended through various regions including the Caucasus, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkiye prior to his arrival in Erbil. His experiences underline the evolving nature of Iraq and the hospitality of its citizens, contributing to a newfound appreciation for the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

Nouri Fonas’s exploration of Erbil demonstrates the substantial progress and welcoming atmosphere found in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. His reflections on the modern developments and rich historical sites reveal a transformed landscape that is both captivating and inviting. This journey has highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and the unifying power of travel in discovering the beauty of diverse regions.

Original Source: shafaq.com