World Bank ready to assist Iraq's rebuilding efforts

BAGHDAD, July 19 (KUNA) -- The World Bank said on Wednesday it would shore up support for the long-term reconstruction of areas in Iraq liberated from the clutches of the so-called Islamic State (IS) group.
According to an Iraqi government statement, World Bank Regional Director Saroj Kumar said the international lender was keen to support the government's economic reform plans, and the reconstruction and development of Iraqi cities.
In a meeting with Iraq's Prime Minister Haidar Al-Abadi, he also congratulated the government on regaining the city of Mosul from IS control.
For his part, Al-Abadi stressed the importance of Iraq's cooperation with international efforts in support of the country, and efforts to hasten programmes aimed at creating job opportunities, boosting the economy and encouraging the return of displaced families to their homes. (end) ahh.sd