For the first time in more than 20 years, the United States returned to Iraq’s largest annual trade fair in Baghdad. The U.S. pavilion is the largest single-country representation at the 38th Baghdad International Trade Fair, which continues through November 10.

02 November 2011

Washington — For the first time in more than 20 years, the United States returned to Iraq’s largest annual trade fair in Baghdad, the State Department announced.

The 300-square-meter USA Pavilion themed “Partnering with Iraq” opened November 1 as the largest single-country representation at the 38th Baghdad International Trade Fair.

U.S. Ambassador to Iraq James Jeffrey attended the opening session and inaugurated the USA Pavilion. Jeffrey emphasized the U.S. commitment to Iraq’s future and the essential role U.S. businesses can play in helping Iraq and its people achieve their potential.

Deputy Secretary of State Thomas Nides said in a video message at the opening of the USA Pavilion that the United States and Iraq share an interest in expanding economic opportunities for Iraqis and for the region.

“We’re sending the message to the world that Iraq is open for business,” Nides said. “It’s time for the world to see Iraq as a country with an educated and diverse population and one full of opportunities to develop mutually beneficial economic partnerships.”

As a former business executive, Nides told the Baghdad audience, he fully understands the crucial role businesses play in building economies and in helping to rebuild lives after years of conflict and a dictatorial regime.

“The American businesses at this trade fair — and new businesses created by Iraqi entrepreneurs … will create jobs, provide livelihoods and give hope to millions of Iraqis,” he said.

More than 80 U.S. corporations, universities, and travel and tourism organizations are showcasing their products and services to Iraqi businesses and people in an effort to expand trade ties between the United States and Iraq, the State Department said. Aviation, automotive and information technology companies listed in Fortune magazine’s tally of the 100 biggest businesses are represented at the trade fair, as are small and medium-sized businesses.

Nides told the audience at the opening that the United States and Iraq enter a new chapter in their relationship next year after the full withdrawal of U.S. military forces, but the U.S. commitment to the Iraqi people and their future remains unchanged. The United States recently opened consulates in Irbil and Basra and a diplomatic presence in Kirkuk, he added.

And the U.S. presence at the trade fair shows significant interest in the automotive, education, construction and information technology sectors, Nides said.

“The trade fair is expected to draw a million visitors and participants including Iraqi government dignitaries, direct end users, wholesalers, distributors, agents, students, opinion leaders and media,” the State Department said.

The Baghdad International Trade Fair continues through November 10.

(This is a product of the Bureau of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://iipdigital.usembassy.gov/iipdigital-en/index.html)