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

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.