Rumors have been circulating in Baghdad regarding the recent arrival of an Israeli business delegation to the Iraqi capital. A group of Israeli industrial representatives have seemingly made the trip in order to scope out business opportunities related to the reconstruction effort, reported Al-Hayat.
According to the report, a number of Israeli firms are planning to open commercial offices in Iraq and are looking into the possibility of appointing local agents in the country.
US commerce officials have advised Israeli firms interested in reconstruction deals team up with Jordanian counterparts. Several Israeli firms have already been contacted by Jordanian companies, who require their neighbor’s expertise and funding. The Jordanian firms have asked the Israelis to enter joint ventures as silent partners, reported Yedioth Aharonot. Israel’s trade minister Ehud Olmert is expected to meet with Jordan’s King Abdullah in the near future to discuss possible partnerships.
Two Israeli firms who have shown interest in Iraq are infrastructure firm A. Arenson and the Solel Boneh Building and Infrastructure Company. A. Arenson has already reported receiving a Jordanian partnership offer, reported Globes. — (menareport.com)
© 2003 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
