Iraq eyes more investment from Turkey

Turkey should help rebuild Iraq with new investments in energy, construction and banking, according to Iraqi Vice President Tariq al-Hashimi, who visited the Independent Industrialist’ and Businessmen’s Association, or MUSIAD, in Istanbul Tuesday. After a private meeting with industrialists, al-Hashimi said he had invited the group to invest more in Iraq, like "big brothers," in order to rebuild the infrastructure of the country and launch joint projects. "We need everything in Iraq, without naming them I could easily say that opportunities are there, ready for Turkish businessmen across all sectors. Our banking system works through U.S. banks and I think Iraq needs the expertise and know-how of Turkey to create an efficient banking system. Turkey and Iraq have common goals in the region. Through cooperation, the potential of the region could serve the benefits of both nations," al-Hashimi said. The Iraqi official also said Turkey is active in energy investments in his country. "Turkish companies’ expertise and knowledge is significantly important for Iraq. There are already many Turkish companies with investments in hydro energy and oil," he said.