IMF Extends Iraq Loan Another Six Months

"Despite...Circumstances, Iraqi Authorities Have Taken Important Measures"

March 13, 2007

The IMF Executive Board on Tuesday approved a 6-month extension for Iraq's $700 million+ "Stand-By Arrangement"--the term for an IMF line of credit.

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Byblos Bank to open Irbil branch in early May

March 13, 2007

Byblos Bank says it will open a branch in the northern Iraqi city of Irbil in early May, becoming the first Lebanese financial institution to operate in the country. Byblos officials refused to say how much they invested in the Irbil offices, which will be staffed by 15-20 Lebanese and Iraqi nationals. About nine months ago the Iraqi Central Bank granted Byblos a banking license, which does not come with minimum reserve requirements for the Irbil branch.

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The International Compact with Iraq - A Shared Vision, A mutual Commitment

March 13, 2007

The International Compact is an initiative of the Government of Iraq for a new partnership with the international community. Its purpose is to achieve a National Vision for Iraq which aims to consolidate peace and pursue political, economic and social development over the next five years.

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Baghdad conference a chance to stabilize Iraq - British ambassador

March 9, 2007

The British ambassador to Iraq said on Thursday that the upcoming conference in Baghdad, next Saturday, will be a chance for Iraq's neighboring countries to end their support of armed groups, which aim to foil the ongoing political process.

Read more: Baghdad conference a chance to stabilize Iraq - British ambassador