KPLU Local News
(2009-12-09)
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Iraqi Ambassador Samir Sumaida'ie in Seattle.
Photo by Bellamy Pailthorp.
Samir Sumaida'ie feels there are still a lot of misconceptions about his country. He likes to remind people that some of the first schools, libraries, the written word and perhaps even the wheel were invented there over four thousand years ago. And he says today, it's more stable than headlines might lead you to think.
"Iraq is open for business. We want suits on the ground, instead of boots on the ground. That's the message."
He's here this week on an invitation from Boeing. The Iraqi government is putting the finishing touches on an order for dozens of planes. He's also visiting Microsoft and having dinner with a trade delegation. He says the Iraqis are resilient. The spirit you see there today - especially after this week's bombings in Bagdad - is akin to the spirit in the U.S. after 9-11.
"It's a resolve that this will not break us, that we will continue on our way and defeat those dark forces who are trying to cow the Iraqi people."
Sumaida'ie says his country has the foundations now of a strong, free democracy. He believes Iraq is on track for a complete withdrawal of US troops, as planned, by the end of next year.
World Affairs Council Backgrounder on Iraqi Ambassador's Visit
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