Press release
16 April 2012
Ministry for Foreign Affairs
Ewa Björling visits Iraq with major trade delegation
Minister for Trade Ewa Björling leads a business delegation to Iraq on 16-19 April.
"The aim of the trip is to position Sweden and open doors for these companies. We must increase exports to new markets like Iraq to realise the vision of doubled exports by 2015. This is crucial for jobs," says Dr Björling.
Exports to Iraq have increased sharply in recent years. Swedish goods exports to Iraq increased by 30 per cent in 2011.
This is my fourth visit to Iraq as Minister for Trade. The potential is enormous and the Iraqi economy is growing steadily, despite significant challenges. Our companies are leading in many areas where demand is greatest, which gives us a head start, says Dr Björling.
Sweden is one of the countries in the world with most people of Iraqi descent. Dr Björling is adamant that this is an advantage for these companies:
Swedish-Iraqis are an underestimated resource when it comes to building commercial bridges between Sweden and Iraq. These cosmopolitans know the country, the language, the business culture and have the right contacts to give Swedish companies an advantage in the market, says Dr Björling.
During the visit, meetings will be held with Iraqi representatives and companies. In addition, Dr Björling will inaugurate the Swedish Embassys section office and the Swedish Trade Councils office in northern Iraq.
Contact
Monica Enqvist (fd Ohlsson)Press Secretary to Dr. Björling
+46 8 405 37 11
+46 70 296 18 99
