Iraqi PM opens up heavily fortified green zone for citizens

BAGHDAD, Aug 28 (KUNA) -- Under orders from Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Al-Abadi, the heavily fortified green zone was opened for citizens, said a statement by the Abadi's office Friday.
The statement noted that citizens were now able to enter the mostly governmental building area of the green zone to attend to their businesses, adding that security will still be provided in the area to prevent any possible terrorist threats.
Al-Abadi also took a decision to return land acquired by the state unlawfully.
The green zone was off-limits for citizens in the past 12 years. Abadi's decision is within efforts to rid state institutions from corruption. (end) ahh.gta