Commerce Department's Sánchez Launches Iraq Trade Mission

Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Francisco Sánchez arrived in Baghdad on October 4, launching the first trade mission to Iraq since the end of U.S. combat operations in August. Sánchez is accompanied by representatives from 14 U.S. companies looking to help Iraq rebuild its infrastructure and its economy. Commenting on the trade mission, the Under Secretary stated, "Our arrival in Baghdad is a clear indication that President Obama remains committed to peace, diplomacy, and economic stability for the people of Iraq. " This is Commerce's 24th trade mission since President Obama announced the National Export Initiative (NEI) during his State of the Union earlier this year.