The United States announced the launch of the Iraqi airport security program worth of US$5 million, National Iraqi News Agency (NINA) reported.

“Airports are gates to the world, and this cooperative program will not only improve the safety of Iraqi travelers but also enhance Iraq's ability to attract and expand foreign investors, expanding global trade links and encouraging economic growth,” said the US Chargé d’Affaires in Baghdad, Joe Hood, at the launch ceremony.

“The launch of the program is an indication of Iraq's increasing role in the global aviation community and underscores the commitment of the United States to help build a thriving and diverse Iraqi economy as stipulated in the Strategic Framework Agreement between the United States and Iraq,” he added.

Officials from the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority and the airports of Baghdad, Basra and Erbil met to discuss how to implement the program and continue to enhance security at Iraqi airports to meet international standards.