Thread: Iraq/Dinar News. 09/05 to 01/14/07

Long List, but overall a good summary of the goings on in Iraq, yesterday..

Iraqi Press 27 Dec 06

I. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND COMMENTS

Dar al-Salam on 26 December publishes on the front page a 350-word commentary by the newspaper's political editor commenting on the recent calls for the formation of a new political front. The writer criticizes some Iraqi political forces for refusing to review their erroneous policies despite the disastrous situation in the country.

Dar al-Salam on 26 December publishes on the front page a 200-word report entitled "US Consulate in Babil Denies Disappearance of $218 Million."

Dar al-Salam on 26 December carries on the front page a 400-word report entitled "Opposition to Deployment of Additional Forces in Iraq Increases Inside US."

Dar al-Salam on 26 December runs on page 2 a 300-word report entitled "Iyad Allawi Urges Neighboring Countries To Stop Settling Disputes on Iraqi Territories."

Dar al-Salam on 26 December runs on page 2 a 1,000-word report entitled "Allocation of $5.7 Billion for Security in 2007; New Large-Scale Security Plan Comprehensive, Depends on Decentralization."

Dar al-Salam on 26 December carries on page 2 a 600-word report entitled "Interior Minister: 1,500 Detainees Will Be Released Soon; 12,000 Police Officers Killed Since Invasion; Neighboring Country Accused of Abduction Citizens."

Dar al-Salam on 26 December publishes on page 5 a 230-word report citing former Prime Minister Iyad Allawi criticizing the recent National Reconciliation Conference in Baghdad.

Al-Manarah carries on the front page and on page 6 a 400-word report entitled "Iraqi Government Allocates $10 Billion to Planning Ministry for Implementation of Investment Projects."

Al-Manarah runs on the front page and on page 6 a 400-word report citing Democratic Society Movement Chairman Ahmad al-Barrak outlining the movement's activities.

Al-Manarah carries on page 2 a 700-word column by Abd-al-Karim al-Amiri regretting his participation in the last election and criticizing the parliament for its poor performance.

Al-Manarah publishes on page 3 a 1,400-word report entitled "Bani Tamim Tribal Shura Council, Tha'rallah Party Issue Two Statements on Assassination of Shaykh Muhsin Abdallah Nasir al-Tamimi."

Al-Bayan runs on the front page a 160-word report confirming that Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki has received a gift from Al-Najaf residents.

Al-Bayan carries on the front page a 60-word report entitled "Court of Appeal Endorses Death Sentence Against Criminal Saddam."

Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 160-word report entitled "Parliament Agrees To Allocate $800 Million for Import of Oil Derivatives."

Al-Bayan runs on the front page a 60-word report entitled "Cabinet Authorizes Trade Minister To Negotiate Agreement With Azerbaijan."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 400-word editorial by Chief Editor Isma'il Zayyir commenting on the recent release of 14 hostages in Al-Mansur District in central Baghdad and urging the government to severely punish the kidnappers.

Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 160-word report on Kurdish President Mas'ud Barzani's speech at the Kurdish parliament to explain the results of his discussions in Baghdad.

Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 2 a 400-word report entitled "Foreign Minister Receives Appreciation Letter From New UN Secretary General, Meets With Representative of Arab League Secretary General, Iranian Ambassador."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 2 a 250-word report entitled "Prime Minister Receives Chinese Ambassador."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 2 a 200-word report entitled "Iraqi-Algerian Negotiations."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 5 a 600-word report entitled "Barzani Outlines Details of Negotiations With Iraqi Officials at Kurdish Parliament."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 5 a 120-word report citing Kurdish Parliament member Tariq Jambaz confirming that a group of parliament members will propose a bill for general amnesty this week.

Al-Istiqamah publishes on the front page a 340-word report confirming that following the success of the recent Political Forces' National Reconciliation Conference in Baghdad, four conferences, including a religious leaders' conference will be held in Baghdad in the next two weeks to enhance the National Reconciliation Project.

Al-Istiqamah carries on the front page a 250-word exclusive report on Foreign Minister Zebari's meeting with Arab League Secretary General Amr Musa's envoy Ambassador Mukhtar Lumani in Baghdad on 25 December to discuss the latest political and security developments in Iraq.

Al-Istiqamah runs on the front page a 600-word editorial praising the results of the recent Iraqi Public Conference organized by SCIRI and attended by all Iraqi sects in holy Mecca. The writer urges all Iraqis to avoid sectarianism.

Al-Istiqamah publishes on page 2 a 600-word column by Abd-al-Karim al-Jayzani criticizing takfiris [the individuals who declare other Muslims to be infidels] who try to destroy the Iraqi national identity and culture.

Al-Istiqamah publishes on page 4 reports on the activities of SCIRI and its affiliated organizations in Baghdad and other governorates.

Al-Adalah carries on the front page a 250-word report entitled "Court of Appeal Endorses Death Sentence by Hanging Against Saddam, Two Aides; Sentence Will Be Executed Within Maximum 30 Days After Endorsement."

Al-Adalah runs on the front page a 550-word report entitled "Al-Maliki Vows To Complete Receipt of Security Files for All Governorates Next Year; Barzani: Adherence to Constitution Only Guarantee for Iraq's Unity."

Al-Adalah carries on the front page a 400-word report entitled "Prime Minister's Envoy Arrives in Al-Samawah; Calmness Restored on Streets in City."

Al-Adalah publishes on the front page a 220-word report entitled "Jordan Confirms: Iraqi's Entry Formalities to Jordan Eased."

Al-Adalah runs on page 3 a 200-word report entitled "Kirkuk Advisory Council Chairman: Istanbul Conference Constitutes Interference in Iraq's Affairs."

Al-Adalah publishes on page 3 a 700-word report entitled "Parliament Member Prepares Report on Economic Impact of Baker-Hamilton Report."

Al-Adalah runs on page 3 a 300-word report entitled "Iraqi Pilgrims Hold Iraqi Conference Organized by SCIRI Delegation in Mecca."

Al-Adalah carries on page 3 a 600-word column by Dr Ali Khulayyf commenting on the most important events in Iraq in 2006.

Al-Zaman runs on the front page a 1,100-word report on the suffering of Iraqi pilgrims.

Al-Zaman carries on the front page a 120-word report entitled "Barzani Criticizes Neighboring Countries Interference in Iraq's Affairs."

Al-Zaman publishes on the front page a 120-word report entitled "Damascus Plans To Host Conference for Iraqi Rivals."

Al-Zaman carries on page 2 a 330-word report entitled "Al-Maliki's Cabinet Reshuffle Postponed; Al-Atiyah Refuses To Internationalize Iraqi Problem, Demands End to Insurgent Infiltration."

Al-Zaman runs on page 2 a 200-word report entitled "Algerian Communications Minister Talk About His Country's National Reconciliation Experience."

Al-Zaman publishes on page 2 a 400-word report entitled "Iraqi Delegation Signs New Agreements With Kuwait; Mechanism for Cooperation With Jordan."

Ishraqat al-Sadr on 26 December carries on the front page a 400-word editorial by Chief Editor Fattah al-Shaykh commenting on Christmas in Iraq and severely denouncing takfiris [the individuals who declare other Muslims to be infidels] who attack people, mosques, and churches.

Ishraqat al-Sadr on 26 December carries on page 7 a 2,000-word report on Al-Sadr Bureau in Maysan and the activities it has achieved.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on the front page a 330-word report citing Ayatollah Ali al-Sistaani rejecting the US attempts to form a moderate bloc from Shiite, Sunni, and Kurdish forces.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on the front page an 80-word report saying that the Iraqi Journalists Association will conduct a symposium on the Iraqi Constitutional Amendment on 27 and 28 December. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah carries on the front page a 200-word exclusive report citing Salah al-Mutlag, chairman of the National Dialogue Front, severely criticizing Adnan al-Dulaymi for deceiving Sunnis and for his negative stance toward the political process.

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah carries on the front page a 320-word editorial by Chief Editor Sattar Jabbar commenting on the deteriorating security situation and calling on honest people to prepare a road map in order to end the Iraqi crises.

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah carries on the front page an 80-word report citing the Mahmud Uthman, parliament member from the Kurdistan Coalition, saying that the Iraqi people have begun losing confidence with Iraqi officials whom they elected and holding Iraqi officials responsible for the delay in the reshuffle. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Sabah carries on the front page a 120-word report saying that the Cassation Commission at the Supreme Criminal Court has approved the decision of executing Saddam Husayn. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Sabah runs on the front page a 120-word report citing Ashraf Qazi saying that the United Nations will take practical measures to help the Iraqi Government and people in 2007.

Al-Sabah runs on the front page a 400-word report saying that the US talks with armed groups will be resumed in Amman following 'Id.

Al-Sabah carries on page 2 a 400-word report on the meeting between Shaykh Khalid al-Atiyah and Amr Musa to discuss the situations in Iraq.

Al-Sabah carries on page 2 a 500-word report citing the White House saying that two Iranian diplomats, out of four, were released. The report adds that Iran officially protested the arrest of four Iranian diplomats.

Al-Sabah carries on page 2 a 280-word report on a statement by the Foreign Affairs Ministry saying that Hoshyar Zebari met with the Jordanian Ambassador to Iraq.

Al-Sabah carries on page 2 a 400-word report citing Iraqi politicians saying that the Samarra bombings, the election results, and the execution of Saddam are the most important events in 2006.

Al-Sabah carries on page 2 a 180-word report saying that Hshyar Zebari met with the Arab League representative in Baghdad to discuss the league's initiative to solve the Iraqi problems.

Al-Sabah carries on page 4 a 150-word report citing archbishops in Mosul calling on Iraqis to give up sectarian violence and be united against Iraq's enemies.

Al-Sabah carries on page 4 an 800-word report citing Iraqi politicians expressing concern about the Security Council's resolution to impose sanctions on Iran and its negative effect on the Iraqi arena.

Tariq al-Sha'b carries on page 2 a 320-word report on a statement by the Democratic Meeting Forces calling for serious measures to achieve national reconciliation and give up instigative discourses.

Al-Muwatin carries on the front page a 350-word editorial by Salam al-Haydari commenting on the Iraqi foreign minister's meeting with Iraqi journalists.

Al-Muwatin carries on the front page a 180-word report citing Ali al-Adib, parliament member from the Unified Iraqi Coalition, saying that Al-Sadr Trend's demands should be discussed in parliament.

Al-Muwatin carries on page 3 a 380-word report citing the Ayli Turkoman Party refusing to conduct a referendum on Kirkuk next year and calling for an international arbitration to settle the issue.

Al-Muwatin carries on page 3 a 120-word report on a letter by the Kurdish parliament to Bush in which it criticized the Baker-Hamilton Report.

Al-Bayyinah carries on the front page a 500-word editorial severely denouncing the raids by US forces in some poor neighborhoods in Baghdad and calling on the government to stop them.

Al-Bayyinah carries on the front page a 370-word report citing Qusay Abd-al-Wahab, parliament member from Al-Sadr Trend, saying that the trend's conditions serve the government and the country.

Al-Mada carries on the front page a 500-word report citing Mas'ud Barzani saying that the constitution is the only guarantee to keep Iraq unified.

Al-Mada carries on the front page a 120-word report saying that the death sentence against Saddam has been ratified.

Al-Mada carries on page 2 an 80-word report on the Iraqi-Malaysian agreement to ease Iraq's debts.

Al-Mu'tamar runs on the front page a 340-word report saying that Jordan has reiterated its readiness to facilitate Iraqis returning to its territories.

Al-Mashriq runs on the front page a 140-word report saying that the Palestinian authority has demanded the evacuation of Palestinians living in Iraq.

II. SECURITY AND MILITARY DEVELOPMENTS

Dar al-Salam on 26 December publishes on the front page a 200-word report entitled "Police Officer Killed in Al-Mahawil, Roadside Bomb Explosion in Northern Al-Hillah, Two Prisoners Escape From Bucca Camp."

Dar al-Salam on 26 December carries on page 2 a 150-word report citing Parliament Member Haydar al-Abadi warning that the ongoing abduction and killing of Iraqi traders endanger the national economy.

Dar al-Salam on 26 December runs on page 5 a 1,400-word report entitled "New Security Plan in Baghdad; Deployment of Additional Troops, Military Units Given Authority To Move Freely; Clashes Renewed in Al-Samawah; 50 Bodies Discovered in Baghdad."

Al-Bayan runs on the front page a 340-word report entitled "Iraqi Army Kills Two Terrorists, Arrests 11, Defuses Two Booby-Trapped Cars, Three Roadside Bombs."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 170-word report entitled "Karbala police intensify security Measures during Id al-Adha." (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 5 a 200-word report entitled "Sixteen People Charged With Terrorism Arrested in Halabjah, Sayyid Sadiq Districts."

Al-Istiqamah runs on page 2 a 100-word report entitled "Forty Bodies Discovered in Baghdad."

Al-Istiqamah publishes on page 2 a 70-word report entitled "Two Persons Killed, Another Injured in Mortar Attack on Al-Kazimiyah District."

Al-Istiqamah runs on page 2 a 100-word report entitled "Senior Official at Iraqi Trade Ministry Kidnapped in Western Baghdad."

Al-Istiqamah carries on page 2 a 130-word report entitled "Three Booby-Trapped Car Explosions in Al-Bayy'a District."

Al-Istiqamah publishes on page 2 a 130-word report entitled "Six Children Killed, Injured in Bomb Explosion in Kirkuk."

Al-Adalah publishes on page 2 a 200-word report entitled "Deployment of 7,000 Police Officers in Karbala During Id al-Adha."

Al-Adalah publishes on page 2 a 340-word report entitled "Eighty-Five People Killed, Injured in Al-Bayy'a Bombings; Explosion Leaves Five Martyrs Behind in Bab al-Sharqi."

Al-Zaman publishes on the front page a 260-word report entitled "Electricity Ministry Accuses Interior, Defense Ministries of Failing To Protect Network."

Al-Zaman runs on the front page a 400-word report on the Al-Bayy'a bombing in Baghdad yesterday, 26 December.

Al-Zaman carries on the front page a 370-word report citing citizens from Al-Kamaliyah, Al-Ubaydi Districts of Baghdad urging the government to end the US siege around their districts.

Al-Zaman publishes on page 4 a 300-word report entitled "Twenty Prisoners Escaped Following Attack on Basra Major Crimes Police Directorate."

Al-Zaman runs on page 5 a 1,200-word report entitled "Interior Ministry: Traffic Jams, Insufficient Number of Cadres Delays Arrival in Explosion Sites; Penetration of Insurgent Groups to Security Agencies Deters Reporting Roadside Bombs."

Al-Zaman publishes on page 5 a 400-word report entitled "Three Students Killed in Roadside Bomb Explosion in Kirkuk; Mosul Police Accuses Al-Qa'ida of Releasing Propaganda Video Tape on Insurgents Deployment."

Al-Zaman carries on page 7 a 150-word report entitled "Rumors About Drinking Water Contamination, Poisoning in Diyala Governorate."

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on the front page a 200-word report saying that US forces have been surrounding Al-Zahra and Al-Ubaydi neighborhoods in Baghdad for two days and launched raids under the pretext of looking for wanted persons.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on the front page a 100-word report citing the spokesman for the Interior Ministry saying that new devices that can discover explosives and weapons will be used in the new security plan. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 2 a 60-word report citing an official source at the Defense Ministry calling on former infantry officers to join the new Iraqi Army. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 3 an 850-word report citing citizens wishing that the security situation would improve in the next year.

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah carries on the front page a 200-word report saying that 20 persons were killed and 70 others were injured in an explosion of three booby-trapped cars in Al-Bayya'.

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah runs on the front page a 500-word report citing Mas'ud al-Barazani attacking Iraq's neighboring countries for interfering in the Iraqi internal affairs. He adds that Peshmergah forces are ready to protect many areas in Iraq.

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah carries on the front page a 120-word report citing police sources in Dhi Qar as saying that police arrested a terrorist network that admitted it had brought three booby-trapped cars in Al-Nasiriyah. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah carries on the front page a 40-word report citing eyewitnesses saying that Al-Kazimiyah was attacked by mortar shells where two people were killed and four others were injured. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah carries on page 2 a 550-word report citing security and government officials in Basra accusing British forces for instigating a war by attacking the Major Crimes Directorate. The report adds that the Basra Governorate Council has decided to suspend their interaction with them.

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah runs on page 4 a 200-word report saying that the Justice Ministry Undersecretary Bushu Ibrahim visited Susah Prison in Al-Sulaymaniyah.

Al-Sabah carries on page 3 a 150-word report citing the Diyala Governor Ra'ad Rashid saying that the security plan has started in Ba'qubah to stop terrorist operations.

Al-Sabah carries on page 3 a 200-word report citing Al-Muthanna's officials, tribal shaykhs, and citizens calling on the government to arrest those who were the reason behind the recent clashes in the governorate.

Al-Sabah carries on page 4 a 400-word report saying that Karbala and Wasit have taken security measures to protect pilgrims and citizens during 'Id.

Al-Sabah carries on page 4 a 120-word report citing an officer from the Karbala Police Directorate saying that police arrested a gang involved in smuggling weapons to Salah-al-Din and Al-Najaf.

Al-Sabah carries on page 8 a 220-word report citing an official source saying that the Central Criminal Court has issued a two-year prison sentence to three Egyptians for involved in some crimes, including the entering of Iraq illegally.

Tariq al-Sha'b carries on the front page a 300-word report saying that five persons were killed and 15 others were injured in an explosion in Al-Bab al-Sharqi in Baghdad.

Tariq al-Sha'b carries on the front page a 180-word report saying that students in Basra conducted a sit-in calling for their salaries that the Basra Governorate Council has allocated.

Tariq al-Sha'b carries on the front page a 230-word report saying that Hadithah's inhabitants have announced civil rebellion protesting the blockade on their city for over a month.

Tariq al-Sha'b carries on page 2 a 100-word report citing police sources saying that 20 persons were killed and 35 others were injured in a booby-trapped car explosion in Al-A'zamiyah. (OSC plans no further processing)

Tariq al-Sha'b carries on page 2 a 100-word report citing a security source in Al-Ramadi saying that US forces released the Reuters correspondent in Al-Ramadi. (OSC plans no further processing)

Tariq al-Sha'b carries on page 2 a 120-word report citing a source in Wasit as saying that 177 unidentified bodies have been buried in the governorate since August. (OSC plans no further processing)

Tariq al-Sha'b carries on page 2 a 60-word report citing a medical source at the Diyala Health Department saying that the Morgue Department has received seven unidentified bodies from different areas of the governorate. (OSC plans no further processing)

Tariq al-Sha'b carries on page 2 a 90-word report citing a security source in Kirkuk saying that a child was killed and five others were injured in an explosion near a school in the city. (OSC plans no further processing)

Tariq al-Sha'b carries on page 2 a 100-word report citing a police source in Maysan saying that unidentified gunmen assassinated a senior traffic police officer in the governorate. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Muwatin carries on the front page and on page 2 a 600-word report citing eyewitnesses denying that Iraqi forces have taken part in the raid by British forces on the Major Crimes Directorate in Basra.

Al-Muwatin carries on the front page a 200-word report citing an official source at the Trade Ministry saying that the minister met with the Jordanian Ambassador to Iraq.

Al-Muwatin carries on the front page a 130-word report citing Vice President Adil Abd-al-Mahdi saying that the criminals who killed one of his bodyguards will not escape from justice. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Muwatin carries on the front page a 130-word report citing the Kurdistan Coalition member Mahmud Uthman saying that the two Iranian diplomats were arrested at Abd-al-Aziz al-Hakim's house.

Al-Bayyinah carries on the front page a 340-word report citing well-informed sources at National Guards forces saying that they released 120 Shiite families in Al-Adl neighborhood that were kidnapped by Adnan al-Dulaymi's gangs. The report adds that a terrorist group in Al-Saydiyah threatened Shiites to leave the area within a week.

Al-Bayyinah carries on the front page a 70-word report citing police sources saying that unidentified gunmen kidnapped Muhannad Ahmad Salih, director of the Baghdad International Fair. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Bayyinah carries on page 4 a 140-word report citing the media spokesman for the Justice Ministry saying that the ministry will construct a complex for judicial departments in Al-Sadr City in 2007.

Al-Mada carries on the front page a 400-word report on a series of explosions and booby-trapped cars yesterday in various places in Baghdad killing and injuring 116 victims.

Al-Mada carries on the front page a 30-word report saying that three students were killed and seven others were injured when an explosive detonated near a primary school in Kirkuk.

Al-Mada carries on page 2 an 80-word report citing sources at the Ministry of Trade confirming that unidentified gunmen kidnapped yesterday the general manager of Iraqi Fairs.

Al-Mada carries on page 2 an 80-word report saying that two prisoners fled from Buka Prison in Basra.

Al-Mada carries on page 2 an 80-word report saying that six US soldiers were killed yesterday in Baghdad.

Al-Mada carries on page 3 a 140-word report saying that Baghdad Governorate Council has decided to boycott British forces because of the latest incident regarding the explosion of the Major Crime Unit's building by these forces.

Al-Mashriq runs on the front page a 340-word report citing the Iraqi police accusing Al-Qa'idah of distributing fake video tapes about the spread of gunmen in Mosul's streets.

Al-Mashriq runs on the front page a 1,400-word report saying that 26 Iraqis were killed in various incidents in Baghdad.

Al-Mashriq runs on the front page a 70-word report citing a member of parliament calling on the religious authorities to stop violence in Basra.

III. HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES

Dar al-Salam on 26 December runs on page 5 a 1,000-word report citing nurses and doctors confirming the movement of their clinics to their houses due to the deteriorating security situation.

Al-Manarah carries on page 2 a 300-word report entitled "Basra Advisory Council Organizes Seminar To Coordinate With Civil Society Organizations."

Al-Manarah publishes on page 2 a 400-word report entitled "Workshop Organized in Al-Diwaniyah To Discuss Ways To Activate Women's Role in National Reconciliation Project."

Al-Manarah runs on page 4 a 600-word report entitled "Karbala Health Directorate Holds Scientific Seminar on World AIDS Day."

Al-Manarah carries on page 4 a 360-word report citing Wasit Handicapped Children Care Establishment Chairman Salih Juhayid Humaydi outlining the establishment's goals, activities and achievements.

Al-Manarah publishes on page 4 a 600-word report on the workshop organized by the Southern Civil Society Organizations Development Center in Al-Samawah to discuss the concept of broadcast and Media Commission Law.

Al-Manarah runs on page 6 a 260-word report entitled "Iraqi Photographers Association Elects New Board of Directors in Basra."

Al-Bayan publishes on page 2 a 150-word report citing an official source at the Property Ownership Disputes Commission confirming that a delegation met with delegations from the International Organization for Migration and High Commission for Refugees in Amman to discuss the possibility of establishing offices abroad.

Al-Bayan carries on page 2 a 300-word report entitled "Baghdad health Directorate Receives 20 Ambulances Donated by Japan."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 300-word report entitled "Number of Iraqis Migrating Abroad Increases."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 2 a 220-word report entitled "Deputy Justice Minister Visits Susah Prison in Al-Sulaymaniyah Governorate."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 4 a 400-word report citing an official source at the Health Ministry confirming the completion of the second round of anti-polio vaccination campaign in Baghdad and other governorates.

Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 4 a 200-word report entitled "Discussion on Environmental Legislations in Iraq."

Al-Adalah publishes on the front page a 100-word report entitled "Custom Commission Sends Back Three Trucks Carrying Inedible Food Items to Jordan."

Al-Adalah carries on page 23 a 2,000-word report entitled "In Order To Improve Environment in Capital, Baghdad Environment Directorate Carries out Campaigns To Remove Garbage, Monitor Air, Water."

Ishraqat al-Sadr on 26 December carries on page 3 a 1,300-word interview with the Maysan Health Director Dr Zamil Shaya' al-Uraybi commenting on the health situation in the governorate.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 2 a 150-word report citing an official source at the Babil Health Department saying that the department has seized 450 kilograms of inconsumable local cheese.

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah carries on the front page 100-word report citing a well-informed medical source in Al-Nasiriyah saying that 612 children died this year due to the absence of medical services after the obstetrics hospital was closed for rehabilitation. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Sabah runs on the front page a 100-word report on a statement by the International Organization for Emigration saying that 255,000 Iraqis were displaced from their areas since the Samarra bombings in February.

Al-Sabah carries on page 8 a 100-word report citing an official source at the Health Ministry saying that the ministry cannot reach Al-Nu'man Hospital in Al-A'zamiyah to provide medicine and medical equipment because many medical cadres were killed and threatened. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Sabah carries on page 9 a 170-word report citing an official source at the Health Ministry saying that Al-Karamah Hospital in Alawi al-Hillah in Baghdad has stopped to provide medical services to citizens because many medical cadres were killed.

Al-Mada carries on page 3 a 500-word report saying that 1,000 Iraqi deportees are leaving their homes daily.

IV. ECONOMIC NEWS AND PUBLIC SERVICES

Al-Manarah runs on the front page and on page 6 a 400-word report entitled "In Trade Ministry, Work on Installation of 20 Wheat Flour Mills Begins; Contractors Violated Contracts With Ministry Fined."

Al-Manarah publishes on the front page and on page 6 a 270-word report entitled "Finance, Public Works and Municipalities Ministers Discuss Ways To Accelerate Implementation of Municipalities' Strategies in 2007."

Al-Manarah carries on the front page and on page 6 a 430-word report entitled "During News Conference, Industry Minister: Ministry Signed Contracts With Other Ministries Worth Over 300 Billion Iraqi Dinars."

Al-Manarah runs on the front page and on page 6 a 650-word report entitled "During News Conference, Baghdad Mayor: Over 1 Billion Iraqi Dinars Allocated for Implementation of Several Projects To Improve Mayoralty Performance."

Al-Manarah publishes on the front page and on page 6 a 500-word report entitled "Higher Education and Scientific Research Minister Confirms: Iraqi Universities Have Scientific, Technical Experience, Ability, Qualified To Contribute to Iraq Reconstruction."

Al-Manarah carries on page 2 an 800-word report entitled "Economic Issues Dominate Discussions of Al-Muthanna Advisory Council."

Al-Manarah runs on page 2 a 500-word report citing citizens from Al-Kut praising the implementation of sewage projects in their districts.

Al-Manarah publishes on page 3 a 230-word report entitled "Official Source at Iron and Steel State Company in Basra Denies Receipt of $150 Million for Rehabilitation of Company."

Al-Manarah carries on page 3 a 300-word report entitled "Expansion of Telephone Services in Al-Najaf Governorate to 80,000 Clients, Internet Center Reopened."

Al-Manarah runs on page 3 a 130-word report entitled "Three Oil Wells Invested in Dhi Qar Governorate."

Al-Manarah publishes on page 4 a 200-word report entitled "In Dhi Qar, Construction of New Schools, Rehabilitation of Existing Ones."

Al-Manarah carries on page 4 a 230-word report entitled "Implementation of Number of Water, Sewage Treatment Projects in Al-Diwaniyah."

Al-Manarah runs on page 4 a 400-word report entitled "Al-Dabbuni Administrator Confirms: District Lacks Basic Urban Design."

Al-Manarah publishes on page 4 a 260-word report entitled "Wasit Housing Directorate Announces Activities."

Al-Manarah carries on page 6 a 200-word report entitled "Iraqi Cadre Begins Work on Sewage Project in Hamdan District of Basra."

Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 170-word report confirming that Iraq has successfully and efficiently rescheduled the reimbursement of $20 billion of its foreign debts.

Al-Bayan runs on page 2 a 600-word report entitled "Higher Education and Scientific Research Ministry Sets Plan To Estimate Iraq's Requirement of Graduates."

Al-Bayan runs on page 2 a 200-word report entitled "Electricity Ministry: Current Power Production Less Than 700 Megawatts."

Al-Bayan publishes on page 2 a 240-word report citing an official source at the Agriculture Ministry confirming the allocation of 1.5 Billion Iraqi Dinars fro the removal of the Nile Flower from the Tigris River.

Al-Bayan runs on page 2 a 300-word report on Trade Minister Dr Abd-al-Falah al-Sudani's meeting with Jordanian Ambassador to Iraq Ahmad al-Lawzi to discuss ways to enhance trade relations between the two countries.

Al-Bayan publishes on page 2 a 200-word report entitled "Workshop To Improve Planning Ministry's Website."

Al-Bayan publishes on page 2 a 500-word report citing an official source at the Agriculture Ministry outlining the ministry's efforts to ensure the success of the winter program.

Al-Bayan carries on page 3 a 1,700-word report citing citizens complaining about the pollution and noise caused by industrial workshops in their residential areas.

Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 300-word report citing Deputy Electricity Minister Ra'd al-Haris confirming that the ministry agrees to supply houses with 10 Amperes of electricity 24 hours a day.

Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 2 a 900-word report on the recent sharp increase in the fuel prices and the transportation cost in Baghdad and other governorates.

Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 2 a 400-word report confirming that the Pepsi Company has signed an agreement to sponsor the Iraqi Football Team officially.

Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 5 a 700-word report entitled "Construction of Weather Monitoring Station in Halabjah District."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 5 a 200-word report entitled "Kurdish Government Allocates $50 Million for Implementation of Service Projects in Khanaqin District."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 5 a 300-word report entitled "Fuel Crisis Escalates in Kurdistan; Duhuk: Price of Gasoline Rises, US Dollar Declines."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 5 a 500-word report entitled "Labor and Social Affairs Ministry Will Implement 100,000 Projects in 2007."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 8 a 500-word report entitled "Finance Ministry Urges Ministries To Deal in Iraqi Dinars Exclusively, Allows Public Servants To Have Long Leaves, Releases Allocations for Implementation of Reconstruction Projects Included in 2007 Budget."

Al-Istiqamah publishes on page 3 a 600-word report on the deteriorating situation of public services in Iraq.

Al-Adalah carries on the front page a 350-word report entitled "Baghdad Mayoralty Prepares for Implementation of Fist Phase of Baghdad Metro Project."

Al-Adalah runs on the front page a 750-word report entitled "Planning Ministry: Iraqi Economy Suffers Progressive Decline in Productive Activities, Mainly Consumptive Economy."

Al-Adalah publishes on page 2 a 750-word report entitled "Economists: Inflation Main Problem Facing Iraqi Economy."

Al-Adalah carries on page 6 a 500-word report by the newspaper's economic editor entitled "Decline of US Dollar Exchange Rate Against Iraqi Dinar Confuses Market, Bank Movement."

Al-Zaman runs on page 4 a 340-word report entitled "Parliament: Next Year Budget Will Provide 136,000 Jobs."

Ishraqat al-Sadr on 26 December carries on page 3 a 550-word article by Ghazi al-Manshidawi commenting on strategies and mechanisms of privatization in the Iraqi economy.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on the front page a 130-word report citing a source at the Babil Governorate Council saying that a wireless telephone exchange of 60,000 lines will be installed in the governorate. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 2 a 120-word report citing an official source at the Higher Education and Scientific Research Ministry saying that the ministry has hired 59 post-graduates at some universities. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 2 a 170-word report citing a source at the Babil Governorate Council saying that the Electricity Ministry will install ten productive units to Al-Musayyab electricity station.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 2 a 200-word report citing the chairman of the Construction Committee at the Baghdad Governorate Council saying that a modern city will be constructed in the capital in 2007.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 3 a 1,400-word report on the useless spending of Iraqi money and its impact on the Iraqi economy.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 9 a 100-word report saying that the Wasit Governor inaugurated two schools in Al-Nu'maniyah at a cost 1.5 billion Iraqi dinars.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 9 a 300-word report citing an official source at the Baghdad Governorate Council saying that the council has agreed to implement a water project in Baghdad at a cost of $40 million.

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah runs on page 4 a 300-word article by Ghayath Abd-al-Hamid commenting on the absence of electricity power and blaming the government for this.

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah carries on page 4 a 300-word report citing a source at the Trade Ministry denying that the ministry's stores have received Iranian rice.

Al-Sabah carries on the front page a 700-word report citing the Electricity Ministry Undersecretary Ra'd al-Haris pledging that the ministry will increase the provision of electricity during 'Id. He added that the ministry has contracted with an international company to import 170 generators.

Al-Sabah carries on page 3 a 420-word report citing the Planning and Development Cooperation Minister Ali Ghalib Babn saying that the 2007 investment budget has reached 12.5 trillion.

Al-Sabah carries on page 4 a 500-word report saying that Amirah al-Baldawi, member of the Economy and Investment Committee at parliament, has prepared a report on the Baker-Hamilton Report and its effects on the Iraqi economy.

Al-Sabah devotes all of page 10 to Mahdi al-Hafiz' speech at the Iraqi Business Council in Dubai on investment in Iraq.

Al-Sabah carries on page 14 a 700-word report on the oil derivatives crisis and the Oil Ministry's failure to solve it.

Al-Sabah carries on page 14 a 900-word article by Hilal al-Ta'an commenting on the foreign investment and its role in rehabilitating the Iraqi economy.

Al-Bayyinah carries on page 2 a 100-word report saying that the Finance Ministry took part in the bilateral meetings with the Japanese Embassy in Amman to discuss the Japanese loan to Iraq worth $3.5 billion. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Bayyinah carries on page 4 a 120-word report citing the Finance Minister Baqir Jabr al-Zubaydi saying that Iraq has signed a bilateral relation with Malaysia to write off 80 percent of Iraq's debts.

Al-Bayyinah carries on page 4 a 160-word report citing the director of Al-Akha State Company saying that the company is conducting negotiations with Turkish companies for gas industry in order to solve the gas crisis.

Al-Bayyinah carries on page 4 a 400-word article by Mahir al-Arifi commenting on the new Investment Law and the Iraqi economy.

Al-Bayyinah carries on page 6 a 500-word report on the workshop by the Planning and Development Cooperation Ministry.

Al-Mada carries on page 3 an 80-word report on the meeting between the Minister of Trade and the Jordanian Ambassador to Iraq.

Al-Mada carries on page 3 a 400-word report on the installation of new operators in Dhi Qar.

Al-Mada carries on page 3 a 100-word report saying that 115 billion dinars have been allocated to implement new projects in Al-Diwaniyah.

Al-Mada carries on page 3 a 450-word report about the decreasing agricultural production in Iraq.

Al-Mu'tamar runs on page 3 a 500-word report saying that the merchants of Al-Shurjah are moving to a new commercial center in Al-Najaf.

Al-Mashriq runs on page 3 an 80-word report on the construction of an educational hospital in Al-Najaf costing $10 million.

Al-Mashriq runs on page 5 a 500-word report on the increase in prices of medicine.

Al-Mashriq runs on page 5 a 230-word report citing MTC Atheer's CEO saying that the company has invested $430 million in Iraq.

Al-Mashriq runs on page 5 an 800-word report citing a British official at the British Embassy in Baghdad revealing that big British companies want to invest in various sectors in Iraq.

V. PRESS COMMENTS

Dar al-Salam on 26 December carries on page 5 a 600-word column by an observer entitled "Who Pays Cost of Political Messages." The writer accuses the government of ignoring political forces' warnings and complaints.

Al-Manarah publishes on page 3 a 500-word article by Hafiz Hamid Muhalhal entitled "Constitution, Corruption of Administrative System."

Al-Manarah runs on page 7 a 3,000-word article by Dr Riyad al-Asadi entitled "War on Iraq Preface for Third World War."

Al-Bayan publishes on page 5 a 600-word article by Tahir Hasan expressing hops that the 2007 budget would ease the sufferings of Iraqis.

Al-Bayan carries on page 5 a 500-word article by Kazim al-Hasan entitled "Democracy, Civilized Requirement in 21st Century."

Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 4 a 400-word column by Hasballah Yahya strongly criticizing Iraqi ministries and political forces for justifying irresponsible statements by their members as personal views.

Al-Istiqamah runs on page 3 a 600-word column by the newspaper's chief editor saying that Shiite people were forced to form militias to defend themselves against terrorist attacks and displacement. The writer says that the Badr Organization has never committed a terrorist acts even against the former regime.

Al-Istiqamah carries on page 3 a 900-word article by Ali Husayn Ali on the suffering of western Baghdad residents due to the control of Saddamists and terrorists over their districts.

Al-Istiqamah publishes on page 3 a 1,200-word article by Ahmad Abd-al-Rahman strongly criticizing terrorists for targeting Iraqi athletes and artists.

Al-Istiqamah carries on page 3 a 600-word article by Ali Sa'id entitled "SCIRI Conference in Holy Mecca Emphasizes Importance of Moderation, Abandonment of Fundamentalism."

Al-Istiqamah runs on page 9 a 1,500-word report by Ali al-Budayri citing citizens condemning the final resolutions issued by the Istanbul Conference because they support terrorism and sectarian violence in Iraq.

Al-Adalah runs on page 5 a 900-word article by Ali Husayn accusing some neighboring countries of supporting terrorism in Iraq.

Al-Adalah carries on page 5 a 700-word column by Sadiq al-Rasafi on the implementation of democracy in Iraq.

Al-Adalah carries on page 5 a 900-word article by Al-Sayyid Abu Zayd Shubbar urging the government to prosecute terrorists publicly.

Al-Adalah publishes on page 20 a 1,200-word last part of a two-part article by Imad Mahdi entitled "My Bitter Experience With Al-Jazirah Satellite Television Channel."

Al-Zaman runs on page 2 a 600-word column by Muhannad al-Haydari criticizing Iraqi political leaders and officials for going to Mecca while the country is boiling.

Al-Zaman carries on page 3 a 500-word column by Abd-al-Jabbar al-Samarra'i emphasizing the importance of peaceful coexistence between Iraqis.

Al-Zaman carries on page 15 a 1,700-word last part of a two-part article by Rasim Isma'il Humud on the impact of the Large Middle East project on Arabs.

Al-Zaman publishes on page 15 a 1,300-word last part of a two-part article by Abd-al-Wahab al-Tuhafi entitled "Modern School in Managing Security Work; Cancellation of Emergency Laws, Courts Enhances Political Security."

Ishraqat al-Sadr on 26 December carries on page 2 a 300-word article by Abu Alya strongly denouncing the US raids on Al-Sadr City and calling on Nuri al-Maliki to stop them.

Ishraqat al-Sadr on 26 December carries on the back page a 280-word article by Diya al-Sayyid Safi commenting on the Iraqi people's sufferings for a long time and calling on the government to put an end to them.

Ishraqat al-Sadr on 26 December carries on the back page a 330-word article by Ala al-Sa'idi severely denouncing "occupation's" and terrorists' terrible crimes against innocent Iraqis in several Shiite areas and calling on Iraqis to stop them.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 2 a 280-word article by Ali Husayn commenting on a report by the Women's Rights Organization in Iraq saying that there are 8 million widows in Iraq.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 5 a 500-word article by the editor commenting on the terrorist attempts to destroy the Unified Iraqi Coalition and calling on the coalition leaders to be united in order to foil these attempts.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 7 a 1,200-word part 1 of an article by Ali Kazim al-Khafaji commenting on the culture of terrorism and Islam.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 7 a 400-word article by Husayn Qasim al-Umari severely criticizing some media establishments and satellite channels for their false news and lies.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 7 a 360-word article by Nabiha al-Mahasin commenting on the terrorist crimes targeting innocent Iraqis.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 7 a 550-word article by Sa'd al-Mukhtar severely criticizing Harith al-Dari and Adnan al-Dulaymi for instigating sectarian violence by killing Shiites.

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah carries on page 3 a 750-word article by Furat al-Shammari strongly criticizing Mish'an al-Juburi, Adnan al-Dulaymi, and Harith al-Dari for their negative stances toward the Iraqi people and calling on parliament to sue them.

Al-Bayyinah al-Jadidah carries on the back page a 460-word article by Muhammad Abd-al-Jabbar al-Shabbut commenting on the interior minister's declaration in which he accused an Iraqi neighboring countries of mass abduction.

Al-Sabah carries on page 3 a 450-word article by Muhammad Abd-al-Jabbar al-Shabbut praising the symposium by Iraqi academics from the Higher Education and Scientific Research Ministry to discuss the Iraqi problems.

Al-Sabah carries on page 11 a 600-word article by Abd-al-Halim al-Ghanimi commenting on the upcoming reshuffle.

Al-Sabah carries on page 11 a 650-word article by Salman Dawud al-Hafizi commenting on the upcoming reshuffle and calling on Nuri al-Maliki not to change the names of ministers only.

Al-Sabah carries on page 11 an 800-word article by Ali Turkuman Aughlu commenting on the Iraqi Constitution.

Al-Sabah carries on page 11 a 450-word article by Ra'ad Alwan al-Sigar commenting on the absence of parliament members from parliament sessions.

Al-Sabah carries on page 13 a 1,400-word article by Ubayd Khudayir Jabr commenting on political sectarianism and sectarian policy.

Al-Sabah carries on page 13 a 1,200-word article by Ali Fakhir Abd al-Darraji commenting on the challenges faced by Nuri al-Maliki and his government.

Al-Muwatin carries on page 2 a 400-word article by Mahmud al-Hashimi commenting on the recent development of the security situation in Basra represented by the political parties' conflict and the British forces' attack on the Major Crimes Directorate.

Al-Muwatin carries on page 9 a 600-word article by Bayda al-Amiri commenting on the issue of displaced families and calling on the government to solve this problem.

Al-Muwatin carries on page 9 a 370-word article by Hasan Dhiyab strongly criticizing those who instigate sectarian sedition in Iraq.

Al-Muwatin carries on page 9 a 550-word article by Abd-al-Karim al-Jizani praising the Mecca Conference and severely criticizing the Istanbul Conference for instigating sectarian sedition.

Al-Bayyinah carries on page 2 a 260-word article by Hasan Karim severely criticizing Al-Samawah's inhabitants for killing each other.

Al-Bayyinah carries on page 4 a 270-word article by Mahir al-Arifi commenting on displaced families' sufferings.

Al-Mashriq runs on the front page a 500-word article entitled 'Between Cholera and the Plague.'

VI. CORRUPTION

Al-Adalah carries on the back page a 140-word report entitled "Integrity Commission Investigates 77 Corruption Cases in Karbala."

Al-Zaman runs on page 8 a 600-word column by Mu'ayyad al-Salihi urging the government to take serious measures to fight the widespread corruption in state institutions.

Al-Da'wah on 26 December carries on page 2 a 160-word report saying that a conference on administrative corruption was held in Wasit.

Al-Muwatin carries on page 3 a 120-word report citing the chairman of the Integrity Commission at the Karbala Governorate Council saying that the committee is investigating 77 administrative corruption cases. (OSC plans no further processing)

Al-Muwatin carries on page 9 a 600-word article by Sattar Awad commenting on administrative corruption and calling on the Integrity Commission to play an important role in combating it.

Al-Mu'tamar runs on the front page an 80-word report saying that the Integrity Commission is investigating 77 corruption cases in Karbala.

VII. IRANIAN INFLUENCE

Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 4 a 240-word report citing an official source at the Trade ministry confirming that inspection committees, which were formed by the ministry following reports on the marketing of Iranian rice crop, have not found any violations at rice crop delivery centers.

Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 5 a 200-word report citing a Kurdish security source, who requested anonymity, confirming clashes with Iranian forces in Banjawin District on 23 December.

Al-Zaman carries on the front page a 600-word report entitled "London: Al-Maliki Agreed To Dissolve Basra Major Crimes Police Directorate; Al-Bulani Plans To Reveal Iran's Involvement in Abductions."


Cheers!
DayDream

Originally Posted by Gloribee

Now, back to our regulat scheduled program... GGF... bite me.

Gloribee

We are testing the site right now. Getting different thing for firefox then explore. Might go in and out for the next few hours. All should be done soon. Thanks for everyones patients. I know, I am going crazy too. But Marek says this must be dealt with. Enjoy what you can while you can. Be back to normal soon.

Korean Firms Allowed to Make Forays Into Kurdistan


South Korea will consider allowing South Korean companies to operate in the Kurdistan autonomous region (the northern Iraqi) capital city of Erbil on a case-by-case basis, government sources said Thursday.

The Kurdish-controlled Iraqi town is where about 2,200 South Korean troops have been stationed on a humanitarian and reconstruction mission since 2004.
The government has banned South Korean civilians and firms from the war-torn nation for security reasons since June 2004, when an Islamic terrorist group killed a South Korean worker, Kim Sun-il, to protest Seoul’s plan to dispatch troops to Iraq.

``We’re still worried that a case similar to the Kim Sun-il incident may occur again. But there is also a problem in that the government is preventing all Korean firms from operating in Iraq though our country has contributed the third-largest number of troops to help reconstruct the Middle East country,’’ a diplomatic source said on condition of anonymity.

A 20-member on-site investigation team involving foreign, defense and economic-related ministries recently visited Kurdistan region and Iraq to assess current security conditions there, the source said.

After receiving applications from companies, a pan-government ad hoc body, comprised of officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Defense Ministry, the Ministry of Construction and Transportation and other related agencies, will review business and security plans of companies concerned to make a final decision on the list of companies to operate in Erbil, he said.

But the government is undecided over whether to allow Korean officials to work with their companies or locals to work with Korean firms, he added.

South Korea’s Zaytun Division, which mostly consists of engineers and medics, performs a variety of humanitarian and reconstruction projects to better the lives of local residents in Erbil.

Coalition forces in Iraq, including the United States, are said to be seeking to conduct ``Zaytun-like (civil military) operations’’ to help stabilize the region and win the hearts of the Kurds.

Despite the troops’ work in the past two years, however, their efforts have failed to yield economic benefits as expected earlier, critics say. Many other foreign nations, such as the United States, the Netherlands and Russia, are winning contracts on large-scale construction projects in Erbil, according to reports.

The Korean troops are to return home by the end of next year under a troop deployment bill passed by the National Assembly on Dec. 15.

The Iraq motion calls for reducing the unit’s size from the current 2,200 to 1,200 by April next year and setting a specific pullout timeline by June.

Source: Hankooki




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Posted on Thursday, December 28

Something is happening here and we don't know what it is...do we Mr. Jones?

OK, CBI is not showing auctions but holding rate. Oanda is showing BIG changes in the exchange rates. 23.45 points to be exact! 30 points yesterday! If they keep going at this rate, proven by the market, what do you think is going to be the CBI rate on January 8th!!! This is just so exciting! They have a plan and they are working it...work it baby...work it


Friday, December 29, 2006

1 Iraqi Dinar = 0.0007876 US Dollar

1 US Dollar (USD) = 1,269.72 Iraqi Dinar (IQD)

Interbank rate +/- 0%

This means:
You buy 1 Iraqi Dinar : 0.0007876 US Dollar
You sell 1 Iraqi Dinar : 0.0007186 US Dollar
You buy 1 US Dollar : 1,269.72 Iraqi Dinar
You sell 1 US Dollar : 1,391.53 Iraqi Dinar

Learn about the new Iraqi Dinar
Median price = 0.0007186 / 0.0007876 (bid/ask)
Minimum price = 0.0007129 / 0.0007808
Maximum price = 0.0007221 / 0.0007916



Thursday, December 28, 2006

1 Iraqi Dinar = 0.0007733 US Dollar

1 US Dollar (USD) = 1,293.17 Iraqi Dinar (IQD)

Interbank rate +/- 0%

This means:
You buy 1 Iraqi Dinar : 0.0007733 US Dollar
You sell 1 Iraqi Dinar : 0.0007068 US Dollar
You buy 1 US Dollar : 1,293.17 Iraqi Dinar
You sell 1 US Dollar : 1,414.77 Iraqi Dinar

Learn about the new Iraqi Dinar
Median price = 0.0007068 / 0.0007733 (bid/ask)
Minimum price = 0.0006926 / 0.0007563
Maximum price = 0.0007154 / 0.0007835

DNO raises share in 2 PSAs in Kurdistan Region by 15% to 55%


OSLO (AFX) - DNO ASA said it has concluded an agreement with the Kurdistan Regional Government, where its working interest in both the Dihok and the Erbil Production Sharing Agreement areas will rise by 15 pct to 55 pct in each project.

In exchange, DNO will assume full responsibility for the funding of both the operations.
The Dihok PSA in the northern part of Iraqi Kurdistan region, while the Erbil PSA is to the south of Dihok.

In an update on activities in Northern Iraq, DNO said adjustments have been made to the Dihok PSA area, some areas at the eastern boarder have been removed in return for receiving some new acreage to the south. One area has been relinquished but no further relinquishments will be required until June 2011.

Installation of a pipeline to connect Tawke oil production to the main northern pipeline has begun, and around 8 kilometres has been installed of a total of 42 km.

DNO said its central processing facilities has the capacity to deliver around 50,000 bopd of the Tawke crude oil quality. DNO therefore plans to speed up development drilling within the Tawke area.

The full rig capacity (3 rigs) will be dedicated for the most part of 2007 to Tawke. A total of 18 development wells are planned to be drilled in 2007, which includes both oil producers and water injectors.

DNO noted successful results achieved from Tawke 1 and 1A discovery wells, but said but no oil flow rates were achieved at Tawke 2. DNO said it will now explore Tawke 4 well as a dedicated oil producer, located some 0.8 km to the north-east of Tawke 1.

Tawke 3 well is at an exploration and appraisal stage.

Referring to its Khanke project, it said no oil flow was achieved at Khanke 1 well, but the costs are recoverable from future Tawke oil production under the cost oil entitlement.

DNO managing director Helge Eide said: 'With the significant progress that has been made on the Tawke Early Production project, we should be ready to produce the first oil from Tawke during first quarter of next year. Achieving this important near term target will mark another important milestone to KRG and DNO.'

AFX News




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Posted on Thursday, December 28

Had hoped to post this morning, but we all know why the site was down..

OK my two questions are answered, or at least explained on a new thread under rumors.

Gold and agriculture. sorry, but with-out concrete Info, I felt it needed to be posted here.

Gloribee

make breakthrough on talks with Iraq


By Hawar Kirkuki
Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani said that Kurdistan Region will receive 17 percent of Iraq's national budget, and urged the Iraqi government to implement the constitutional article regarding Kirkuk on time.

Describing talks with Baghdad as "successful and fruitful," Barzani told reporters upon his return to Erbil International Airport last Tuesday that the KRG reached an agreement with Iraqi authorities over Kurds' share of the national budget.

However, he added, "The agreement will be put before the Council of Ministers in Baghdad and they will make the final decision on it."

The KRG has asked the Iraqi government to hand over an alleged sum of $486 million (US) to the Region's treasury. According to previous agreements between the KRG and the Baghdad government, the price of oil per barrel was estimated at $26(US), while oil has been sold at more than $60(US) over the past year.

Kurds demand a share of the Iraqi government's extra oil income.

The Iraqi government has agreed to pay $364 million(US) to the KRG in three phases. The rest of the money has been spent on projects in Kurdistan carried out by Iraqi government ministries, Kurdish officials say.

KRG officials also participated in talks on oil law in Baghdad. Barzani said he held talks with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki on the issue.

Oil has been a major issue dividing Kurdish and Iraqi authorities in post-war Iraq. KRG says it is constitutionally allowed to drill for oil in areas under its control, but Iraqi oil officials have threatened that KRG's oil deals will not be "valid."

"Most of the oil wells are in southern Iraq, and the oil law allows KRG to talk with companies and make deals for oil production," Barzani said.

"In the future, a law will be issued, according to which each region and part of the country will have its share of oil revenues. We need to have our share of that and we are waiting for that law to be issued."

For most of late November and early December, a Kurdish delegation led by PM Barzani was in Baghdad to hold talks with central authorities over "suspending dossiers."

According to preliminary agreements between the KRG and federal authorities, a representative from the Baghdad government will attend talks between the KRG and oil firms.

Once the KRG reaches a deal with a company to drill for oil in Kurdistan, the contract will be sent to Baghdad for assessment and approval by an Iraqi government committee. The contract will then be returned to the KRG and it will have 60 days to sign it.

"There needs to be some criteria according to which the (oil) contracts are investigated so as to know if there is any corruption in the deals or to what extent the company will implement its obligations," Barzani said.

Another issue on the agenda during the talks between the KRG and Iraqi officials was that of Peshmerga.

The Iraqi government had earlier asked the KRG to send its strong Peshmerga troops to southern and central parts of the country to provide security. However, KRG has been reluctant to accede to that demand so far, saying that some conditions must first be met.

Barzani told reporters that the KRG has asked the Iraqi government to fund Peshmerga forces from its $8 billion 2007 defense budget. But the Iraqi government has not yet agreed to that demand.

"After lots of talks we didn't achieve any result. But we insist that Kurdistan Peshmerga must have a share in Iraq's defense budget and we will continue our talks with Baghdad to resolve this issue."

In a closed session of the Iraqi Parliament last month, Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, Iraq's Sunni parliament speaker, had called upon the Kurdish leadership to send Peshmerga forces to Baghdad to protect the lawmakers.

The KRG has approximately 100,000 Peshmerga forces under its command and Iraq's constitution recognizes them as "regional guards."

Disputes over the oil-rich Kirkuk continued in Baghdad as well.

Kurds demand the normalization of the situation in Kirkuk in line with Article 140 of Iraq's national constitution that was ratified last year.

The Iraqi government has formed a committee for implementing the constitutional article, led by the country's Minister of Justice. Barzani reiterated the Kurdish stance that no delay in executing Article 140 is acceptable.

"We insist on implementing the constitutional Article (on Kirkuk) and PM al-Maliki reiterated that this article has to be implemented on time," PM Barzani said.

Iraq's constitution has set a three-step roadmap to normalize the situation in Kirkuk and other areas that were Arabized by the government of former President Saddam Hussein. A referendum on the city's fate is to be held by the end of 2007 on whether it should remain under central government's control or join Kurdistan Region.

The city is populated by Kurds, Turkomans, Arabs, and Christians, and is currently administratively linked to the Iraqi government.

Source: The Kurdish Globe




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Posted on Thursday, December 28

New water project in Diwaniya


A water project has been accomplished in the Nafar town of Diwaniya at a cost of 629 million Iraqi dinars and with a capacity of one million gallons per hour.

The head of information in Iraq's reconstruction and development office in the province said that this project would satisfy the needs of the town and two villages with 5,000 residents.
The new project, which will replace the old project, includes a 4 km pipe network with diameters of 250 mm and 160 mm.

Source: Portal Iraq




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Posted on Thursday, December 28

Iraqi, Dutch officials discuss Iraqi investment


Iraqi Ambassador to Holland Siamend Abdulsamad Bana'a recently held a seminar on Iraq at Holland's Council Headquarters for Trade Development in The Hague. The seminar - New Developments in Iraq - highlighted investment opportunities in Iraq and Iraq's new investment rules.

Following a speech from the Ambassador, guests heard from the Head of the Dutch-Iraqi Center for Trade Development, Head of Foreign Economy Relations Section in Dutch Ministry for Economic Affairs and the representative of Dutch Shell Company.
"Discussions concentrated on the existence of wide prospects in the field of cooperation with Iraq at the present and for the future and the investment in the light of new rules that protect the investor," according to Iraq's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

At the end of the seminar, "the Dutch Economic Ministry decided to allocate an amount for supporting and activating economic cooperation with Iraq and investment in it."

Source: Portal Iraq




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Posted on Thursday, December 28

A year passed!


Soon we will leave 2006 behind us. A new year with new hopes and expectations awaits us.

As The Kurdish Globe staffs, we wish all our readers a very happy New Year and hope that the New Year bring with itself a better, many colorful days. Coincidentally, end of December observed two major religious feasts of Christians and Muslims, in effect, the Christmas and Holy Muslim feast of Qurban. We congratulate both Christians and Muslims citizen of Kurdistan and Iraq and wish them peaceful and joyful celebrations in their holy days.
2006 was not that bright for the Iraqi people apart from the Kurds. Most of Iraq witnessed more bloodshed and terror than the previous years. All the attempts to find a functioning government and sorting out Iraq's dire shortcomings were unfortunately failed. The endemic armed conflict between the Shiites and the Sunnis caused lots of innocent lives and prevented reconstruction of the country which is in ruin. The prospect of peace and stability in Iraq is indeed very bleak.

The Kurds on the other hand enjoyed more stable and peaceful year compare to previous years. Not a single terror attack was observed. The three major cities of Kurdistan- Erbil, Sulaimaniya and Duhok- not only became a terror-free zone but at the same time witnessed major construction projects and economic developments which changed the landscape of all these cities. The stability of Kurdistan Region has also been confirmed by recent British Foreign Office amendment of its instructions to its citizens about travel to the region. The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) on Thursday amended its travel advice for the Kurdistan Region. It has removed its previous advice against all but essential travel. The British government's press release stated that, "The Foreign and Commonwealth Office today amended the travel advice for the Kurdish Regional Government-controlled provinces of Duhok, Erbil and Sulaimaniya in Iraq, to remove the advice against all but essential travel." The travel advice now distinguishes the Kurdistan Region from other parts of Iraq, reflecting its relative stability, peace and security.

This does not mean, however, that Kurdistan is divorced from all its problems. On contrary the people in Kurdistan suffered from chronicle shortcomings of electricity, clean water and fuel. We urge the Kurdistan Regional Government to address these problems as soon as possible in 2007. It must be underlined here that peace and stability alone would not make people's life better without addressing the essential needs of the nation.

The Kurdistan President, Kurdistan National Assembly and Kurdistan Regional Government have all the responsibilities to make sure that the political, social and economic gains of Kurdistan region must be protected for any cost and to be improved further. For the Kurds to face tough times ahead and be ready for any eventuality, consolidation of Kurdish national movement is of prime importance. This can be realized through an efficient government, clear political strategy and well-being of citizens of Kurdistan.

Source: Globe Chronicle




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Posted on Thursday, December 28 @