Economist: Iraq opens up to the world

Shafaq News/ The Economist shed light today on the recent government's decree to ease restrictions upon entry to Iraq for nationals from 36 countries.

The London-based newspaper said that PM Mustafa al-Kadhimi scrapped visa requirements for visitors from 36 countries, including America, China, and those in the European Union. "They will be granted a two-month entry permit on arrival," the economist said.

The newspaper quoted Iraqi officials saying that the new move aims to transform Iraq from "an area of co-operation, not confrontation", cut red tape, encourage investment, and kick-start reconstruction.

"It’s the single most effective decision to open Iraq to the world," says a frequent German visitor.

The Economist said the prime minister hopes it will also let Iraq depend less on Iran. His advisers dream of attracting expats and even tourists.

However, "Iraqi consular staff say they have not been officially notified of the changes and that foreigners should still apply for visas," it added.

Iraq announced on March 21 that it waived visa entries for arrivals of 37 countries. The new decisions allow arrivals from countries like US, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Switzerland to enter the Iraqi territory and stay for two months for only 75 dollars fees.