Iraqi Embassy Hosts Symposium in Ankara to Discuss Investment Opportunities
On Friday, February 28, 2025, the Iraqi embassy in Ankara conducted a symposium led by the Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to Turkey, Majid Al-Lajawi, aimed at streamlining investment entry for Turkish investors and reviewing opportunities in Iraq for the upcoming year.
The event featured a robust attendance from both Iraqi and Turkish officials, including Muhammad Mufid Aiden, head of the Turkish-Iraqi Parliamentary Friendship Committee; Hussein Al-Sabari, deputy head of the Parliamentary Investment Committee; and Ambassador Fatima Yazkan, Director General of Immigration Policy and Visa Affairs at the Turkish Foreign Ministry. Additionally, numerous Turkish businessmen and investors participated in the discussions.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Al-Lajawi emphasized the historical significance and economic relations between Iraq and Turkey, highlighting the notable growth in trade and investment activities. He revealed that the two countries’ trade volume exceeded $15 billion (excluding oil and its derivatives) in 2024, showcasing Iraq’s openness to foreign investments across diverse sectors, including energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, agriculture, and technology, as part of its ambitious plans for 2025.
The Ambassador affirmed the Iraqi government’s commitment to creating a stable investment climate and enhancing investor confidence, reiterating Turkey’s status as a primary economic partner for Iraq. He also detailed efforts to simplify visa issuance procedures for Turkish investors, including special exceptions facilitating direct entry.
The head of the Turkish-Iraqi Parliamentary Friendship Committee commended the Iraqi embassy’s initiatives in expediting visa processes and acknowledged the importance of bolstering economic ties between the two nations. The Vice-Chairman of the Parliamentary Investment Committee added that 2025 is expected to mark a significant upsurge in investment projects, enhanced facilities for investors, and strategic initiatives particularly in renewable energy, manufacturing industries, and modern technology.
Ambassador Fatima Yazkan emphasized that facilitating visa procedures is crucial for strengthening bilateral economic relations, noting Turkey’s recognition of Iraq as a promising investment destination. She asserted the Turkish government’s readiness to foster economic and investment cooperation with Iraq, particularly in infrastructure and energy projects.
During the symposium, participants engaged in discussions regarding the challenges Turkish investors encounter in Iraq, which include administrative processes, investment legislation, and licensing requirements. Ambassador Al-Lajawi assured attendees that the embassy is actively addressing these challenges to promote a more attractive and flexible investment environment.
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