![arrow](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20120916035904im_/http://www.trade.gov/images/bullet_arrow.jpg)
![arrow](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20120916035904im_/http://www.trade.gov/images/bullet_arrow.jpg)
For Immediate Release: October 04, 2010
Contact: Mary Trupo (202) 482-3809
UNDER SECRETARY FOR INTERNATIONAL TRADE FRANCISCO SÁNCHEZ LAUNCHES TRADE MISSION IN IRAQ
First U.S. Mission to Iraq Since End of Combat Operations to Promote U.S. Exports
BAGHDAD, IRAQ – Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Francisco Sánchez arrived in Baghdad today, launching the first trade mission to Iraq since the end of U.S. combat operations in August. Sánchez is accompanied by representatives from 14 U.S. companies looking to help Iraq rebuild its infrastructure and its economy.
"Our arrival in Baghdad is a clear indication that President Obama remains committed to peace, diplomacy, and economic stability for the people of Iraq. He also continues to demonstrate his commitment to helping American companies create jobs," Sánchez said. "The United States and Iraq have entered a new phase of commercial engagement, and I am confident that the recent transition will lead to a stronger economic relationship between our two nations. This trade mission that I am leading is a symbol of the U.S. commitment to develop a lasting friendship with Iraq based on mutual respect and shared interests."
This is Commerce's 24th trade mission since President Obama announced the National Export Initiative (NEI) during his State of the Union earlier this year. As of today, Commerce has led more than 250 companies on trade missions to 28 countries. The NEI aims to double U.S. exports in the next five years, supporting several million new jobs.
###
International Trade Administration
The International Trade Administration (ITA) is the premier resource for American companies competing in the global marketplace. ITA has 2,100 employees assisting U.S. exporters in more than 100 U.S. cities and 77 countries worldwide. For more information on ITA visit www.trade.gov.
The International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, manages this global trade site to provide access to ITA information on promoting trade and investment, strengthening the competitiveness of U.S. industry, and ensuring fair trade and compliance with trade laws and agreements. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein. This site contains PDF documents. A PDF reader is available from Adobe Systems Incorporated.