Thread: Iraq/Dinar News to April 19, 2007 10PM CST

An international conference for reconstructing Iraq coinciding with a conference for neighboring States
16 April 2007 (Iraq Directory)

Spokesman of the Iraqi government, Ali Al-Dabagh, said on Friday that a high-level meeting will be held at the beginning of May to launch a five-year international plan for reconstructing Iraq.
Al-Dabagh refrained from revealing the whereabouts of this meeting which is expected to be attended by many governmental and international agencies; however it coincides with the conference of the neighboring countries of Iraq, of which said the Iraqi Foreign Minister, Hoshyar Zebari, on Thursday that it will be held in the first week of next month and also abstained to locate the place of the meeting.
On his part, the American Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Middle East Affairs, Scott Carpenter, said that the Ministerial Conference on Iraq may be held this month or early next month, but he did not disclose the location of the conference.
Carpenter believed that the plans are still under preparation for the conference, adding that the Ministerial Conference on Iraq would be a continuation of the international conference on security in Iraq which was held on the 10th of March, in Baghdad.
While the whereabouts of the conference is not revealed yet, the United States indicated that it supports holding it in Istanbul in Turkey, which was rejected by the Iraqi government.
The conference of Iraq’s coalition era will witness giving Iraq international, financially, politically and technically support in return for political, security and economic reforms.

An international conference for reconstructing Iraq coinciding with a conference for neighboring States | Iraq Updates

Many bids received from international companies to invest
Fawzi Hariri: Our investment based on local and international cooperation
16 April 2007 (Iraq Directory)

Iraqi Minister of Industry and Minerals, Fawzi Hariri, announced the start of concluding agreements with the local, Arab and international companies according to the system of the strategic partner with the industry companies that will continue for 10 - to 20 years.
He added in a press conference: “The ministry put forth twelve investment file concerning the industries of: cement, iron and steel, petrochemicals, fertilizers, auto industry, glass and paper for the purposes of rehabilitation in within a comprehensive program prepared by the ministry for rehabilitating and modernizing these factories”. The aim of the rehabilitation operations is to increase the production capacity and develop these factories, as well as the establishment of non-polluting industries to the environment using specialized international companies. Hariri disclosed that the working group in charge of this task has put some general conditions of contracting, that give priority to ensuring the rights of workers in those factories, improve their living conditions and grant them a number of advantages and incentives to retain all employees and their contribution to the process of rehabilitation and the payment of salaries, allowances and benefits and coverage of any increases, according to the laws and regulations worked by in Iraq; such conditions must be agreed on before signing contracts with any company to carry out the rehabilitation.
Hariri reviewed some facts about a number of industries, including: the Glass Company which will be presented at an estimated cost of investment of about $ 50 million, the General Company for Petrochemical Industry, which represents one of the pillars of Iraqi industry and where 4000 employees work, is put forth to investment at about 100-120 million dollars. Hariri expected that the Company of the Iron and Steel will need investment of about $180-220 million to rebuild the structure of the company, the furnaces and the production of iron needed by Iraq to support the reconstruction process; while the cement plants in Al-Qaaem, Sinjar, Karbala and Muthanna, will need investment estimated at about $ 360 million.
Minister of Industry expressed optimism of the consequences of putting these industries for investment, and that these industries will receive large number of offers, emphasizing that investment would be open for many other industries in case investors were available, such as the textile industries that are currently witnessing significant challenges to prove their worth like the Clothes factory in Najaf, one of the best factories in the Middle East, and which signed a contract for supplying global institutions with its production. It is expected that the staff wages in companies offered for investment will be more than these of their peers in public companies, and that the production capacities of some of those factories will rise to 120% of their design.
The minister confirmed that preference will be to the offers that serve the interests of the ministry, the employees and the State, praising the positive role of governors and provincial assemblies in supporting the investment process in Iraq, stressing that the ministry has set the announcement of those bids within 45 days, and that the process of selecting bidders will be within the week or two that follow, and that these investments will be at open periods ranging from 10-20 years.
With regard to the rehabilitation of the companies’ plants, the statement said that it was divided into three stages giving priority to the implementation of the plants according to a number of criteria represented in: the availability of raw materials used in production locally, the plants that receive significant demand for their products, reducing the import of materials produced in these plants and the stability of the security situation in the governorates where these plants are located.
Ministry of Industry said that the government's policy is clear concerning the investment and the shift from the public sector to the private sector or free market, and it will trend towards supporting the private sector and the Iraqi industry. This was announced by Iraqi Prime Minister and all the concerned ministries; the Ministry had actually begun applying the gradual transition and privatization of State enterprises and the support to increase their ability to compete in the market, and we are confident of their potentials because of the experience and the elements of success they possess, particularly in the market.
Hariri explained that most of the planned contracts will be based on finding the strategic partner, and preference would be to the one capable of providing modern services, technological possibilities widely known, rehabilitating the cadres and financing of this process. There is also a study to create a sort of tacit agreements, which show the diversity of contracts depending on the type and nature of the institution, saying that there was high demand from many Arab and regional companies to invest because they are sure that the poor security conditions will not last long, and some of them expressed a desire to invest even in unsettled regions.
On the salaries of these companies, he explained that in case of investing them there will be a greater chance for increasing grades from four degrees to 11 degrees in addition to the profit margin achieved, because some companies have stopped now due to their need for financing to be provided by the investor; however, the investment does not mean the government will abandon the employees of those companies, but they will continue to receive salaries from the government even in the private system.

Many bids received from international companies to invest | Iraq Updates

Dear Friends,

Please remember that Mr. Ego Maniac Sadr is not, the King of the Mountain.

Prime Minister Malaki, to his credit has offered everyone, every possible opportunity for "compatibility".

PM Maliki made statements to the fact that if members of the parliament did not show up for work during the third session, which is now, that they would be replaced.

The intelligence of PM Maliki's proclamation, months ago, was a statement directed to Sadr and/or others of like mind and mal-intent.

The message was clear. The show would go on.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
New York (US)
16 March 2007


Opening remarks to meeting on the International Compact with Iraq

Vice-President Mahdi,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I thank you all for attending this meeting and for your commitment to the International Compact with Iraq.
The preparatory process for the Compact has been under way in Baghdad since July 2006. This process, which included two high-level meetings in Kuwait and Abu Dhabi, has brought together the Government of Iraq and the international community in an effort to develop a mechanism that would help Iraq to realize its national vision.
As you know, a small support group was established to support the preparatory process. But it has always been our intention – and that of the Government of Iraq – to expand the group in due course. Today's meeting offers an opportunity to bring the larger international community together to consider how best to support the people of Iraq under the Compact.
I am pleased that His Excellency, Mr. Adel Abdul Mahdi, Vice- President of Iraq, is here today to inform us about the latest developments in Iraq and, in particular, about the progress that has been made in the preparatory process for the Compact.
We are all aware of the difficult situation in Iraq. It is heart-wrenching to see almost daily attacks on innocent civilians, which have left immense suffering and pain in their wake. Beyond the political violence and sectarian strife, a humanitarian crisis is stretching the patience and ability of ordinary people to cope with everyday life. The United Nations is now strengthening its humanitarian efforts, and working with Iraq's neighbours and other countries in the region, to address the increasing needs of those who have left Iraq temporarily, those displaced inside the country and those suffering from diminishing access to basic public services.
Given these circumstances, some may question why a Compact would be necessary or appropriate. I understand these concerns. However, a framework for normalization is required now more than ever.
I am also aware of the view that there is a multitude of initiatives on Iraq which have yet to yield tangible results. Certainly, there is a need to streamline and consolidate these initiatives, and to concentrate on achievable goals. But unlike the other initiatives, the Compact focuses on Iraq's long-term economic development, while also stressing progress in the political and security fields, through a mutually re-enforcing relationship.
The Compact aims to achieve its objectives in two ways:
First, a “national compact” among Iraqis on the necessary security and political steps would be agreed upon. These steps are prerequisites for the normalization of the situation in Iraq and for the revitalization of the economy.
Second, an “international compact” between Iraq and its partners would set out the Government of Iraq's agenda for the next five years with regard to economic and social reform. This shared vision and mutual commitment would allow the international community to channel support in accordance with the priorities decided upon by Iraqis themselves.
The Compact should be seen as a tool for unlocking Iraq's own potential. It seeks to achieve concrete results in the areas of public sector resource management, institution building and human development, in line with the United Nations Millennium Development Goals. It also emphasizes a more holistic approach to energy management. Toward that end, the Government's recent efforts to adopt new oil and gas legislation are encouraging. Indeed, a viable arrangement to share the nation's oil wealth and natural resources can also help build much-needed trust and confidence among Iraqi communities.
There has also been welcome progress in adopting other key legislative acts. But these may not achieve their full and positive impact unless the same consensus is also expressed in the Iraqi Constitution. This makes a genuine and meaningful constitutional review process all the more important.
Above all, it is essential that all Iraqi communities come together in a spirit of dialogue to find lasting solutions. As they do so, they should be able to count on the active support of Iraq's neighbours and the international community. The Compact is an important framework for fulfilling precisely those shared responsibilities towards Iraq and its people.
The United Nations is committed to supporting the implementation of the Compact. Through my good offices, and those of my Special Representative in Iraq, Mr. Ashraf Jehangir Qazi, the United Nations will make every effort to ensure that the international community remains engaged in this process.
I have appointed Mr. Ibrahim Gambari, who is well known to you all, as my Special Advisor on the International Compact with Iraq and Other Political Issues, to succeed Mr. Mark Malloch Brown as Co-Chair of the Compact. He will be in active contact with all concerned to move this process forward and to ensure its success.
The challenges ahead are immense. I am sure you will all agree that we cannot leave Iraq on its own to cope with them. The International Compact is intended to help the Government to build a secure, unified, federal and democratic nation, founded on the principles of freedom and equality, capable of providing peace and prosperity for all its people.
A positive political progress and a reduction of violence are essential preconditions for the success of this initiative. I call on the parties to work towards this goal. And to maintain the momentum generated by this meeting itself, I encourage the Government of Iraq to agree on the date and venue for the launch of the International Compact.
Thank you again for attending this meeting. I am hopeful that, through our concerted efforts, we can help to build a country at peace with itself, with its neighbours, and with the wider international community.
Thank you.

Opening remarks to meeting on the International Compact with Iraq

Iraq approves of local and foreign capital investments

MENAFN - 15/04/2007

(MENAFN) The Iraqi Minister of Industry and Minerals stated that the Iraqi government has approved to allow local and foreign investors to invest in projects and industrial companies for durations between 10 and 20 years, Iraq Directory reported.

He also stated that the ministry is preparing a plan to decide the extent of investment for Iraqis and foreigners, also stating that investors are responsible for the training of employees. Some of the companies which will be put up for investment, include a cement factory in Kirkuk with a required investment of $100 million and 1200 employees and Al-Qaaem factory which requires approximately $50 million and 900 employees.

The minister also said that preparations for the opening of construction factories for state buses, ambulances, and fire trucks is underway and it is estimated that the plants need around $15 million investment for importing automobile parts.

MENAFN - Middle East North Africa . Financial Network News: Iraq approves of local and foreign capital investments

Ministry plan to create ‘3 million’ jobs
By Ali shatab
15 April 2007 (Azzaman)

The Ministry of Agriculture has unveiled a three-year development plan under which it hopes to create ‘three million jobs’.

Agriculture Minister Nadhem al-Abadi said most of the new jobs will be created in the southern and central parts of the country.

Iraq is endowed with fertile land and two of the world’s largest rivers which bisect the country from north to south.

Nonetheless, it now has to import most of its food needs. The country’s food import bill is estimated at nearly $5 billion a year.

But Abadi said, “We hope the new plan will boost agricultural produce, particularly of main crops and to be able to meet 21 per cent of the country’s food needs.”

New technologies will be introduced and the use of fertilizers and pesticides to be expanded, he said.

Abadi said the ministry’s teams and technician were even engaged in providing their services in ‘restive areas’ where three million animals have been vaccinated.

Korea, Iraq to Expand Energy Ties
15 April 2007 (Korea Times)

President Roh Moo-hyun and Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki agreed Thursday to expand economic cooperation between South Korea and Iraq, especially in the fields of construction and education as well as in energy and resources.

In a summit at Chong Wa Dae, the two leaders expressed their expectations for substantial collaboration between the two countries in the economic fields, including information-technology (IT), South Korean officials said.

Roh and al-Maliki also discussed South Korea،¯s assistance for the rehabilitation efforts of the war-torn Middle East state, according to the presidential office.

``Our aid for Iraq،¯s reconstruction efforts and measures to help South Korean enterprises make inroads into the markets of the Middle East country were also discussed in addition to other matters of mutual concern,،¯،¯ Roh،¯s spokesman Yoon Seong-yong told reporters.

After the summit, officials from the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on oil and gas cooperation, to which South Korean officials attached great significance.

``It is a very rare occasion for Iraq to sign an MOU with an individual country,،¯،¯ Minister of Commerce, Industry and Energy Kim Young-ju said. ``It is very meaningful.،¯،¯

Al-Maliki, the highest-level official to visit South Korea since the inauguration of the new Iraqi government in May last year, arrived in Seoul on Wednesday for a three-day visit. He met with Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and attended a dinner hosted by Han last night.

His itinerary here also includes meetings with Prime Minister Han and other political and business leaders to discuss ways to enhance bilateral cooperation.

Accompanied by the ministers in charge of petroleum, power generation, industrial policy and urban planning, the Iraqi prime minister will also tour key industrial facilities in South Korea, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Besides the government،¯s economic assistance to the war-devastated country, South Korea has maintained rehabilitation forces, the Zaytun Division, in the northern Iraqi city of Irbil since 2004.

Originally Posted by inquisitive1

Dear Friends,

Please remember that Mr. Ego Maniac Sadr is not, the King of the Mountain.

Prime Minister Malaki, to his credit has offered everyone, every possible opportunity for "compatibility".

PM Maliki made statements to the fact that if members of the parliament did not show up for work during the third session, which is now, that they would be replaced.

The intelligence of PM Maliki's proclamation, months ago, was a statement directed to Sadr and/or others of like mind and mal-intent.

The message was clear. The show would go on.

Yes you are correct but I can't help but worry about what Sadr and his army of over 10,000 might do if things don't go the way he wants them to.

I don't understand why he and his army weren't dismanteled from the beginning, I know he is/was a supporter of Maliki but his army is more like a huge gang of thugs that aren't even in the official armed forces of Iraq.
They should have to do what their government tells them to do, not what Sadr says to do.

Bottom line is, he hates the USA and wants us out real bad. The stories we've read are most likely true that once we pull our forces out of Iraq then Sadr will try to change things to where he gains more and more power, he's probably making deals with the Iranians right now for after our departure.

I think someone needs to find where this guy is hiding, probably hanging out with Osama somewhere.

Lewscrew

I appreciate that you have concern, however I attempted to let everyone know that those that really count when the chips are counted, are not afraid of the puny ill wolf.

Originally Posted by stargate-sg13

Sorry if I sound negative, I really don't want to be. But I am desperate and very depressed because of my situation. Stopping one business because of health reasons and a new business that failed and not being able to find a job that will pay enough that will allow me to keep my house and possessions. I only have enough to cover my expenses for a few months.

With my luck the Dinar will RV on the day I sell my house. Or the giant pool of water from a house that was torn down next door to me and up hill will over flow soon and wash my house away.

With respect, please try not to EVER use the sentence ‘WITH MY LUCK’. It indicates that you have already made up your mind that things will go badly for you. Remain positive and maintain positive thoughts. I know it is not always easy when faced with adversity but negative thoughts don’t help. Start thinking that you WILL keep your house. You said that you still had enough funds to see you through for a few months. How good is that!!!!!! The very best of health and luck to you. Let's hope for an R/V real soon!