Minister of Trade Athir Dawood Al-Ghariri discussed with the Ambassador of the European Union Mission in Iraq, Thomas Sailer, areas of economic and trade cooperation between Iraq and the European Union and increasing the volume of trade and investment exchange, and supporting Iraq in accelerating the process of joining the World Trade Organization. During the meeting, the Minister stressed the seriousness of the Iraqi government in supporting economic development projects and enhancing trade cooperation with various countries of the world in a way that contributes to achieving sustainable development and stability of the national economy, in addition to its keenness to achieve more joint cooperation with the European Union and increase the volume of trade exchange in a way that serves the mutual benefits of both parties. The Minister called on the Ambassador to hold an exhibition specialized in products and companies of the European Union countries on the grounds of the Baghdad International Fair, and to su pport Iraq in preparing educational programs inside Iraq about the advantages of joining and its impact on the economy by integrating into the multilateral international economy. " For his part, Sailer stressed the Union's interest in supporting Iraq in its path to join the World Trade Organization and providing technical advice in drafting laws and legislation to comply with the requirements of accession, in addition to interest in developing trade cooperation and expanding the volume of trade exchange with Iraq, removing obstacles and maintaining communication. The Ambassador referred to "the memorandum of understanding signed with the Federation of Iraqi Chambers of Commerce as an important step to achieve positive indicators in the long term, and an incentive to achieve partnerships with Iraqi sectors." Source: National Iraqi News Agency