During a meeting attended by Mr. Khalid Al-Jabri, Chairman of Osoul Org. for Economic and Sustainable Development, as part of a delegation of members of the Private Sector Development Council, with H.E. Mr. Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi, Prime Minister, we presented a number of priority economic and investment issues that we believe represent key pillars for supporting the private sector, strengthening the business environment, and stimulating economic activity in Iraq.

The issues raised included the challenges facing foreign oil companies operating in Iraq; measures to ease the burden on small-scale professionals and business owners; addressing outstanding issues between the Federal Government and the Kurdistan Region in a manner that contributes to greater economic and investment stability; as well as the inclusion of Iraq in the OECD’s Foreign Direct Investment Regulatory Restrictiveness Indicators. We also discussed improving company registration procedures, addressing the issue of inactive companies, and a range of other important economic matters related to improving the business environment and attracting investment.

These issues were presented alongside a set of practical observations and proposals, with H.E. the Prime Minister expressing interest in and engagement with the matters raised. Follow-up will continue with the Prime Minister’s Office and the relevant authorities during the coming period. We will keep you updated on the outcomes of these follow-up efforts, as well as any developments or measures taken in this regard.