Basra's stability a magnet: Japan to boost economic engagement
Shafaq News/ Japan is looking to scale up its economic engagement in Iraq's Basra province, Ambassador Akira Endo confirmed on Monday.
During a visit to the province, Endo discussed expanding Japanese corporate involvement in key development efforts with Governor Asaad al-Eidani. 'We explored ways to enhance Japanese firms' contributions across strategic sectors,' Endo told Shafaq News.
Discussions covered major projects including the al-Hartha desalination plant, oil refining upgrades, power generation, and port expansion, al-Eidani revealed, adding that Endo viewed Basra's security stability as 'key' for attracting long-term investment.
Through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Tokyo has funded critical projects in Basra, including the Basrah Water Supply Improvement Project.
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