Press Releases

On Wednesday, May 8, from 5:30 p.m. for about 30 minutes, H.E. Mr. Shunichi Suzuki, Parliamentary Senior Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with H.E. Dr. Thamir Abbas Ghadhban, Chairman of the Advisory Committee of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Iraq, who is currently visiting Japan. The overview of the meeting is as follows:

1. Mr. Suzuki expressed his gratitude for the support Japan received from Iraq in the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake and welcomed the visit of H.E. Dr. Ghadhban who is regarded as the key person in shaping Iraq's development strategy. Mr. Suzuki also expressed his hope that the leading technology and know-how of Japanese companies would be further utilized in Iraq's development policy.
   In reply, H.E. Dr. Ghadhban remarked that the Government of Iraq appreciates the contribution of the Government and people of Japan for their support to the reconstruction effort of Iraq through such means as the Official Development Assistance in various fields.
2. Mr. Suzuki mentioned that Japan attaches importance to Iraq which is steadily advancing its way towards reconstruction and abounding in business opportunities, and that Japan is ready to continue contributing to the development of Iraq, sharing Japan's experience of post war reconstruction. Mr. Suzuki also requested the continued cooperation from the Government of Iraq in further improving its business and security environment, which is crucial in encouraging the activities of Japanese companies in Iraq.
   In reply, H.E. Dr. Ghadbhan mentioned that the security situation in Iraq is steadily improving and hoped that Japanese companies would show further presence in Iraq, adding that the Government of Iraq is ready to provide them with necessary assistance.
3. In addition, both sides discussed ways to promote bilateral economic and business relationship as well as issues related to domestic political situations in Iraq.