May 2, 2003	Friday	Safar 29, 1424

KUWAIT CITY, May 1: With the fall of Saddam Hussain’s regime and the coalition forces in control of Iraq, Kuwait has become a business activity centre, where many companies from different countries are in negotiations to get their share in Iraq’s reconstruction.

Kuwait in the recent days received a number of businessmen from various countries who held negotiations with local and Americans companies to get partnership in main projects or sub-contacts in reconstruction of Iraq.

The companies which are in efforts to get contracts include construction, foodstuff supply companies, cement manufactures, medicines companies etc.

According to sources, beside businessmen from India, Syria and other countries, Pakistani businessmen, though belatedly, have paid a number of visits to Kuwait and held talks with Kuwaiti and American sponsored companies for getting involved in reconstruction of Iraq.

Sources told Dawn that Pakistani businessmen in the recent days held very fruitful negotiations with Kuwaiti and American businessmen and were expecting $100 million plus contracts or sub-contracts to provide cement, construction raw materials, wheat, ghee, medicines, foodstuff and other materials.

Source said that one of the Pakistani construction company, might get a project for the construction of two bridges at Ume Qaser area in Iraq.

They said that as compared to Indians, who are very much active in getting business in Iraq, Pakistani businessmen and companies are slow in pace due to lack of guidance and proper coordination from Pakistan embassy in Kuwait.