BAGHDAD: In a move to bolster economic and trade relations, Iraq announced the opening of a commercial attaché in South Africa. Minister of Trade Athir Dawood Al-Ghariri emphasized that this decision marks a significant step in enhancing investment opportunities and facilitating trade exchanges between the two nations. The initiative aims to open new avenues for collaboration and expertise exchange between businesses in both countries.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the announcement was made during a meeting between Minister Al-Ghariri and Tsilani Mokonya, the non-resident Ambassador of South Africa to Iraq. The meeting was part of a broader visit by South African officials to Baghdad for discussions aimed at fostering cooperation with Iraqi authorities. Al-Ghariri highlighted Iraq’s investment potential, citing the nation’s political stability and recent economic reforms designed to improve the business environment.

Minister Al-Ghariri underscored the importance of taking concrete steps to increa
se trade volume and eliminate existing barriers. He also advocated for the activation of a joint committee and the implementation of a 2012 bilateral agreement to benefit both countries. The minister called for joint meetings between the private sectors of Iraq and South Africa to explore investment opportunities and form partnerships.

The minister expressed his hope for increased South African participation in the Baghdad International Fair, seeing it as a platform for fostering further economic and trade collaborations. Ambassador Mokonya conveyed South Africa’s eagerness to enhance bilateral relations, focusing on economic and political cooperation. She also discussed the potential for lifting entry visas for diplomats and official delegations and mentioned the possibility of signing memoranda of understanding during their participation in the Baghdad International Fair. Mokonya confirmed her commitment to expediting the procedures necessary for opening the commercial attaché soon.