June 24, 2013 -- Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki received at his office today the official head of Citigroup Inc., Mr. Dance Avelanery, who announced the opening of a new Citi office in Baghdad. This will mark the first American bank to open its own office there.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki called for more active participation for Citi inside the Iraqi financial market, and reiterated Iraq’s plans to double the production of oil and natural gas – therefore allowing for more comprehensive economic reform. In addition, the increase of enhanced resources and the partnership between Iraq and Citigroup, Inc. will help make Iraq more versatile - therefore reflecting on other economic sectors such as agriculture, industry and tourism.
Mr. Dance Avelanery expressed that Citigroup, Inc. is determined to be part of Iraqi development and is eager to promote the economy in Iraq. He assured the Prime Minister of the many global companies willing to invest in Iraq and the company’s support of such investments. Finally, Mr. Avelanery pointed out that the opening of the Baghdad branch would be a prelude to further banking activities in Iraq.