23 May 2003
Minister for Foreign Affairs Alexander Downer arrives in Iraq

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer, today visited the Iraqi capital and met with the US Administrator, Paul Bremmer.
Here he is being fitted with body armour on his arrival at Baghdad International Airport by members of the Australian Defence Force. He also opened the Australian Representation Office, which is the first Australian mission in Baghdad since 1991.
Australia is firmly committed to developing its bilateral partnership in Iraq and participating in the continual development of Iraq. Minister Downer said Iraq would be an important power in the Middle East for years to come.
The Australian Respresentation Office will include representatives from Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Austrade, and Defence. The opening of the office will enable Australia to advance its commercial, security, immigration and humanitarian interest in a post conflict Iraq.
Minister Downer said Australia already had a commerical interest in Iraq, supplying 90 per cent of its wheat market, and Australian business has expressed interest in a range of other sectors.

	JPAU23MAY03AG02 The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer, today visited the Iraqi capital and met with the US administrator, Paul Bremmer. (Date taken: 23 May 2003) Low-Res | Hi-Res
	JPAU23MAY03DH03 The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer, arrives at Baghdad International Airport aboard a RAAF C130. (Date taken: 23 May 2003) Low-res | Hi-Res