ATHENS, Feb 27: Iraq rejoined the Olympic family on Friday after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) lifted a nine-month suspension. The decision will allow Iraqi athletes to compete at the Athens Olympic Games in August under their own flag.

"This is a great moment for Iraqi athletes... for Iraqi people today," Iraqi National Olympic Committee (NOC) president Ahmed Al Samarrai said. "This proves that Iraqis can rule themselves, just give them a chance."

Samarrai said Iraqi athletes and officials faced a huge task ahead of the Aug 13-29 Games. "Naturally we are starting in Iraq from zero," he said. "It is a hard job but we will do our best to succeed. This is the first step. Every job needs a first step and this is it."

The IOC suspended Iraq last May. "Thanks to the hard work we have put in and the co-operation of all involved, the suspension has been lifted after only nine months," IOC communications director Giselle Davies said.

"Two missions went to Iraq, a lot of hard work has been done. "Today is the formal decision by the IOC to lift the suspension - Iraqi athletes will enter the Olympic Stadium under their own flag." -Reuters