CLDP hosted a high-level delegation of Iraqi officials for consultations in Houston, Texas and the signing of a Sister City Agreement between Houston and Basrah. The consultations and signing, held from May 4-7, included the Governor of Basrah, a delegation of federal and governorate officials, and private-sector representatives from Iraq as well as Mayor Annise Parker, city officials, and private-sector representatives from Houston. Because 80% of Iraq’s economic activity originates from the Basrah directorate, Iraq’s recovery at large is chiefly dependent on strengthening the economy of that region. The Sister City partnership is an important step in that direction.

The City of Houston emphasized its readiness to share knowledge and provide multi-sector support to Basrah with respect to planning and economic development, and identifying viable partnerships. The delegation met with the Houston Airport Authority to discuss future cooperation. In meetings with the University of Houston, the Basrah governor announced his 50 Student Program, which will allocate funds for 50 students annually from the University of Basrah to study at the University of Houston. The City of Houston also offered support identifying partnerships with Basrah’s Medical Sector via the Texas Medical Center. The group also attended the World Energy Cities Partnership luncheon reception for mayors and government officials from more than 10 energy cities. As a result, Basrah is now considering joining the partnership, which invited the Governor to its next board meeting.

In addition to events promoting the Basrah-Houston partnership, the Basrah delegation also attended the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston. In side meetings, the OTC director and organizers offered their guidance and mentorship to the governorate as it develops the Basrah Oil and Gas Show. The group also held meetings with executives of U.S. companies operating in Iraq to discuss operating challenges.