Iraq open for business, US and Iraqi officials say
Business News
Jul 24, 2009, 14:24 GMT
Washington - Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki declared security was improving and his country was ready to bring in foreign investment during a meeting with US business leaders on Friday.
In a speech before the US Chamber of Commerce, the largest US business association, al-Maliki said Iraq was in 'dire need' of the expertise of foreign companies to help with its reconstruction.
'Everything in Iraq requires reconstruction and modernization,' said al-Maliki, who is on a three-day visit to Washington. 'Iraq is a promising market and has a lot to offer for those who are looking for opportunities.'
US officials and business groups backed the message. National Security Adviser James Jones urged US companies to get more involved. Violence had diminished and businesses should no longer view the country as a risky investment.
'It's time to update this perception,' Jones told the Chamber. 'The United States is committed to strengthening the economic ties between our countries.'
Al-Maliki met with US President Barack Obama at the White House on Wednesday. Obama urged more reconciliation between Iraq's ethnic groups to help foster stability, as US forces are increasingly turning responsibility for security over to the Iraqis.
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