A high level Iraqi delegation, led by the Governor of Basra, Wael Abdelateef Hussain, is currently in Dubai to discuss opportunities for cooperation on several reconstruction projects in southern Iraq with Emirati companies and United Arab Emirates (UAE) government officials.
The delegation, comprising twenty prominent Iraqi business and government representatives, was hosted by Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department (DNRD). At a press conference held in Dubai on Thursday, February 19, 2004, the Governor of Basra expressed his appreciation of the role played by the UAE in supporting the reconstruction efforts in Iraq, especially its ports.
The Basra delegation raised several important issues regarding the reconstruction program during the press conference. Iraq has made considerable progress in a short period of time. The government has instituted progressive investment and banking laws to encourage growth in the country and essential infrastructure is being restored at a rapid pace. The delegation has scheduled meetings with several prominent Emirati businesses and local government bodies including the World Trade Centre and Emaar Properties to highlight the opportunities available in the reconstruction process and discuss projects of mutual benefit.
“We are here to study how best UAE organizations and companies can assist us further in accelerating the reconstruction process. We feel we have a lot to gain from the experience of the UAE in building a modern state. We are confident this visit will be the first step in building long-standing ties between Iraq and the UAE in various sectors, leading to a strong infrastructure that will help Iraq become a modern financially strong country,” said Hussain. — (menareport.com)
© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
