PM urges formation of Iraqi businessmen council

BAGHDAD/ IraqiNews.com: During a meeting with local businessmen, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has stressed the role of the private sector in the development of the national economy, calling to form a council for Iraqi businessmen, which he said would help those seeking access to Arab, regional and international markets. “Developing the economy is not the responsibility of the government alone. The private sector should play a significant role in this regard…,” a statement received by IraqiNews.com news agency quoted Maliki as saying. “The opportunity is now ripe to sponsor the private sector and Iraqi businessmen in light of the economic openness and the presence of capital protection and investment laws,” he noted. Maliki explained that the formation of an Iraqi businessmen council will help local investors have close contact with their Arab, regional and international counterparts. SS (P)/SR 1