Swiss Ambassador Hails Iraq as Secure, Attractive Investment Environment

The Swiss Confederation's Ambassador to Iraq, Peter Nelson, affirmed on Thursday that Iraq has become a secure and attractive environment for investments and foreign companies, praising Baghdad's strides in combating corruption. This came during the reception of the head of the Integrity Commission, Mohammed Ali Al-Lami, by the Ambassador. Al-Lami warned of corruption's serious and transnational repercussions, stressing such crimes necessitate concerted efforts and enhanced international coordination to prosecute perpetrators and recover illicit gains. The Commission's head urged stronger bilateral cooperation in anti-corruption efforts, aligning with national legislation and UN Convention obligations. He expressed hope for greater collaboration with Switzerland to facilitate the recovery of Iraqi funds held in Swiss banks, returning them to the state treasury. Al-Lami also highlighted the vital community role in supporting oversight bodies and anti-corruption. He stressed bolstering partnerships with civil society and engaging with the Commission's awareness programs to foster integrity, transparency, prevent corruption, promote reporting suspicions, and encourage public participation in exposing graft and protecting public funds. Ambassador Nelson, in turn, emphasized the importance of international cooperation against corruption and coordination among UN Convention state parties. He noted Iraq's current security and stability, which have strengthened its appeal as a safe environment for investments, businesses, and foreign firms. He confirmed several Swiss companies operate in Iraq and others are interested, attributing this to the improved secure environment.