Official circles in Iraq have warmly embraced Saudi Arabia's participation as the Guest of Honor in the 47th Baghdad International Fair, recognizing it as a significant opportunity to enhance economic and investment relations between the two nations. The involvement of the Saudi Export Development Authority, representing Saudi Arabia in collaboration with the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council, has received acclaim, especially with the Kingdom's diamond sponsorship of the event.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani expressed gratitude for the engagement of 95 Saudi companies specializing in diverse fields such as construction, investment, health, transportation, and education, alongside seven official government agencies. This extensive participation aims to showcase the Kingdom's national goods and services while fortifying its presence in the promising Iraqi markets, where many of Iraq's requirements are met by companies and government agencies in Saudi Arabia.
Furthermore, Iraqi Minister of Trade Atheer Al-Ghurairi stated that Saudi Arabia’s participation as the guest of honor underscores the growing partnership between the two countries. This is particularly significant as Saudi exports to Iraq have surged over the past five years, reaching over 18 billion Saudi Riyals.
Visitors to the Baghdad International Fair are surrounded by Saudi companies and products throughout the event, with the Saudi pavilion bustling with promotional activities, particularly the "Saudi House," said Director General of the General Company for Exhibitions and Commercial Services in the Iraqi Ministry of Commerce Mustafa Al-Ani. The "Saudi House" showcases Saudi-made products and cutting-edge technology and innovation.
Al-Ani emphasized the considerable turnout from Iraqi investors and companies at the Saudi pavilion at the fair, as well as the crowds enjoying the impressive shows presented there. Iraq aims to establish robust economic relations with Arab and international neighbors through the pavilion.
The Baghdad International Fair presents an opportunity for Iraq to enhance its economic and investment sectors and support Saudi manufacturers and exporters across various industries in showcasing their products in the Iraqi markets.
The fair also creates a valuable platform for Saudi participants to engage with Iraqi businessmen, company owners, and government entities, fostering deeper cooperation between the two nations.
Given Iraq's ongoing reconstruction and development efforts in various sectors, the country seeks support for this campaign at the fair, which attracts participation from numerous countries, with Saudi Arabia being a prominent contributor​.