Security stability, economic recovery boost tourism in Iraq

According to a report recently published by the independent website “iol”, Iraq has reached a state of recovery and openness to the world to attract tourists and visitors who wish to visit its holy cities, its cultural landmarks and its ancient ruins.
 
In its report, a copy of which was obtained by Shia Waves Agency, the website said that “Iraq is witnessing a good state of security and economic recovery, and has now become a destination for many tourists, travelers and adventurers who love to discover the civilization of this ancient country.”

The report added: “In the past, and as a result of Iraq’s exposure to successive terrorist attacks, it was very dangerous to travel to the country; even governments were warning their people not to even think about traveling there.”

It explained: “Tourists, including Russians, British and Americans, prefer to visit the ancient ruins of Babylon; as well as the holy city of Najaf,” noting that “the increase in tourism coincides now with the Iraqi government’s quest to show that the country is safe and open to foreign companies and visitors as it seeks to diversify its oil-dependent economy.”

The report also quoted Iraqi Minister of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities Ahmed Fakak al-Badrani as saying: “Work is underway to build new hotels to meet the increasing demand and renovate tourist and historical sites ,” adding that “the image of the country in the West as a battlefield of conflict will gradually change with the increase in the number of tourists coming to Iraq.”