From Southern Iraq to Northern Ireland

international | anti-capitalism | other press

Tuesday April 29, 2008 12:27

by tom eile

tomeile at hotmail dot co dot uk

The Basra Development Commission (BDC) , a panel consisting of six Iraqi businessmen ,and officials ,plus one Briton , is to visit the North of Ireland this week to speak to officials there . They hope to learn during their two day visit from community and business leaders about how the Irish peace process has transformed the six county economy.

The BDC –which describes itself as “an independent champion for investment and economic development in Southern Iraq “ was in fact set up by and funded by the British Department for International Development which sees the commission’s work as 'a crucial part of Britain's strategy in Iraq '. The Department for International Development works closely with the British Foreign Office and Ministry of Defence to provide assistance ,advice and a stable investment environment for investors .

Michael Wareing, Chief Executive of the British- based accountancy conglomerate KPMG International, spoke recently of his delight in being appointed Commissioner of the BDC . Wareing has already assimilated some lessons from the conflict in “Northern Ireland” .Carefully following F.O . guidelines in a recent interview on KPMG’s website he referred to “Southern Iraq” - as if partition of Iraq is now an accomplished fact - saying :
"I am delighted to accept this new position heading-up international input to the Basra Development Commission. There are enormous opportunities for business and enterprise, and – as Commissioner – I am excited by the prospect of helping to achieve economic growth which will benefit not only the people of Basra and Southern Iraq, but also the entire region."

Majid Alsadi, an Iraqi businessman and member of the commission, said that there were more than $200 billion worth of investment opportunities in oil-rich Basra province, including in the port, airport, oil industry and education . He told a news conference in London before flying to Ireland:
"I believe Northern Ireland has been through a similar path to some extent of what we’ve been through in Iraq -- the aftermath of a civil war, the reconstruction of the city and the country. "
http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/0428/iraq.html

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/feb/24/iraq.oil