Iraqi Ambassador meets EDB Chairman

The Ambassador for the Republic of Iraq Kahtan Taha Khalaf called on EDB Chairman Janaka Ratnayake, last Friday to discuss arrangements regarding Sri Lanka’s participation at the 39th Baghdad International Trade Fair scheduled to be held from 1 to 10 November.

Iraq is currently dependent on Turkey and Syria for 50% of its imports and it is seeking to reduce its dependence on these countries by broadening its import base. This provides an ideal opportunity for Sri Lanka to once again establish broad economic links with Iraq.

The Ambassador commended the commitment shown by the EDB and the initiatives taken to encourage the private sector to promote trade between the two countries. Seven leading private sector companies representing the sectors of tea, confectionery, cables, rubber and coir have already agreed to participate in the event. In addition the EDB proposes to widen the participation by including companies from the jewellery, seafood and processed food sectors.