MINSK, 21 December (BelTA) – Iraq hopes for Belarus’ assistance in postwar reconstruction of the country, Charge d’Affaires at Iraqi Embassy in Belarus Ali Osam Abed Ali said at an event held 20 December to mark the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Belarus.
“I think that in the near future Belarus will be able to help Iraq restore its industry, construction and agriculture. Iraq will need this cooperation, especially during the country’s postwar reconstruction. I hope that during this period the relations between Belarus and Iraq will acquire a new, even higher level,” said Dr Ali Osam Abed Ali.
In his words, Belarus and Iraq have been steadily developing their relations recently. The opening of Iraq’s Embassy in Minsk in March 2008 and also a number of mutual visits have contributed to the strengthening of the bilateral ties. “Iraq and Belarus are developing cooperation in various areas. For example, the two countries have signed agreements on protection of investment and also in youth affairs. The parties are also working on a draft agreement on cooperation in healthcare,” the diplomat noted.