For the first time in 20 years: Iraqi ambassador starts work as head of Iraqi interests bureau in Damascus

Iraqi Ambassador Mohammed Refeat started his work as the head of the Iraqi interests bureau in Damascus.

He is the first Iraqi ambassador to take that post since diplomatic relations were boycotted between the two countries 20 years ago due to Syria's opposition to Iraq's war against Iran.

Diplomatic sources in Damascus say the Iraqi interest bureau is considered a step toward resuming Syrian - Iraqi diplomatic relations.

An Iraqi trade center was opened to revitalize the commercial ties between the two countries.