Follow-up Iraq Procurement event to open in Jordan in October 2004

Iraq Procurement 2004 - 'Meet the Buyers' presented over 30 Iraqi ministers, deputies and officials and over 40 Iraqi business leaders at the London event - a complex feat achieved by no other organisation, governmental or otherwise.

Scheduled consultations with ministers and face-to-face meetings with key Iraqi business leaders via the 'Meet the Buyers' networking forum were key to the success of the event, where over 350 corporate delegates representing 220 companies took part.

"We have attended several Iraq reconstruction events but Iraq Procurement in London was the most productive, practical and successful business event," said Dr Omar Salameh, CPO, Novartis Pharma Services. "We encourage you to build on this positive experience and plan another meeting."

A large number of the delegates present in London have already confirmed attendance at Iraq Procurement - Jordan in October, where again Iraqi Central Government ministers and their deputies will gather along with a high level delegation from Northern Iraq - including Prime Minister Dr Barham Salih - with the full endorsement of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK).

Iraq Procurement - Jordan will offer many levels of opportunity: a full international exhibition and conference; the 'Meet The Buyers' forum, where over 100 top Iraqi contractors and business leaders, along with many of the prime contractors will be available to meet with delegates to discuss the supply of essential equipment, materials, goods and services; and exclusive private meetings with ministers, deputies and director generals from both the Iraq Central Government and Northern Iraqi Government, along with the Central Bank of Iraq.

It is essential for companies and investors not to lose sight of the long-term needs of Iraq and understand the opportunity for establishing a foothold in the safe and stable region of Northern Iraq as a gateway to the country and surrounding regions. Through this event companies will be able to showcase their capabilities and meet the real decision makers.