Kuwait sees better inter-Arab ties through Iraq reconstruction conf.

KUWAIT, Feb 11 (KUNA) -- A Kuwait-hosted conference on reconstruction in Iraq represents an unprecedented opportunity to take ties between Arab nations to new levels, an official said on Sunday. The "Kuwait International Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq is a path towards a brighter future in the Arab region," the Chairman of the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Ali Al-Ghanim said during his meeting with a contingent of Iraqi journalists.
He pointed out that the conference aims to rebuild a nation that lies in tatters after years of warfare, citing a separate meeting over investment in Iraq, where a number of development projects in Baghdad are expected to be promulgated.
On the "Invest in Iraq" conference, Al-Ghanim revealed that some 1,850 companies from 50 nations are set to participate, a testament to the magnitude of the event.
Meanwhile, Wafa Al-Qatami, a KCCI official, said the conference proves Kuwait's commitment to serving the best interests of the Arab region.
Addressing a panel discussion involving Kuwaiti companies that plan to invest in Iraq, Al-Qatami noted that the conference could usher in an epoch of stability and peace for the entire region.
Dr. Sami Al-Araji, Chairman of the National Investment Commission of Iraq, thanked Kuwait for the initiative, saying his country now has the chance to lure foreign investment after its military victory over the So-called Islamic State.
He went on to tout the ample investment opportunities Baghdad has to offer, in sectors running the gamut from healthcare and education to the tourism industry. (end) mge.nam