In the framework of the project “Investment Promotion for Iraq” (IPI) — implemented by UNIDO with the support of the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation — on 11th August 2021 UNIDO ITPO Italy organized an online meeting with the World Free Zones Organization (World FZO), specifically with Zoë Harris, Project Director at World FZO.

The meeting — also attended by: UNIDO ITPO Italy Investment Promotion Expert Andrea Carapellese; Fabio Russo, UNIDO Project Manager for IPI – Phase II; and Abdulhadi Al-Hatem, National Technical Coordinator in Iraq — was aimed at discussing potential synergies within the output II of the project. 

As a result, the World FZO offered to collaborate with UNIDO ITPO Italy on activities supporting Iraqi industrial zones, with the goal of strengthening the local capability to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and foster partnerships with the private sector. Also, the meeting paved the way for the decision to organize of a conference in September 2021, in order to introduce the World FZO to the High-level Commission for Industrial Zones of the Iraqi government.