Ambassador Faily recently participated in two business roundtable events which were part of comprehensive trip to California. The roundtables highlighted a number of programs designed to strengthen the Iraq-U.S. bilateral relationship, particularly ties between the nations business communities. The events were arranged by the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq and the National U.S.-Arab Chamber of Commerce, with additional support from the U.S. Commercial Service.
The discussions facilitated dialogue about current and future business opportunities between Iraq and the United States in a number of sectors including water, energy, construction and other core infrastructure projects. Many leading U.S. traders and investors attended the events, where Ambassador Faily stressed the importance of promoting democracy, transparency, combating corruption, enforcing security as well as providing the best environment for investment.
The Ambassador also noted Iraq’s sacrifices and considerable progress in fighting terrorism and building professional institutions. Iraq is now one of the most attractive countries for businesses and investments in the region, as many financial and energy firms have realized its potential and revitalizing economy. The Ambassador brought attention to Iraq’s goal of doubling its oil output, therefore positioning the country to be the second largest oil exporter within the next few years.
Among the organizers was Mr. Daivd Hamoud, president of the National U.S.-Arab Chamber of Commerce (NUSACC). The NUSACC works closely with leaders throughout the Arab world, as well as high-level decision makers in the U.S. business community, public policy research centers, multilateral institutions, nongovernmental organizations, media, and the government of the United States.