Progress in Iraq

The Ministry of Education is back in the hands of Iraqis today. The Ministry has made remarkable progress in reforming the country's schools. More than 5.5 million children are back in the classroom, and girls now outnumber boys. Overall attendance during exam week was 97 percent. Teachers that were once bound to Saddam's propaganda now encourage open discussion, critical thinking, and the scientific method. This is the second ministry to transition to direct Iraqi control and represents a major milestone towards Iraqi self-government.

The new Customs Service is making it easier to import goods to Iraq. A modern tracking system now allows the inspection and clearance of goods within 24 hours. When Saddam's regime was in place, it often took more than two weeks for goods to move. In addition, a fair, transparent, and uniform levy of five percent will go to an Iraq reconstruction fund. This transparent customs system will facilitate trade to help revive Iraq's economy.

Newly trained Iraqi army officers are assuming a greater role in defending their country. Today, 156 Iraqi army officers graduated from a six-week training course in leadership, law, planning, operations, and logistics. These officers now will assume senior positions in the new Iraqi army. A professional, well-trained army is essential to establishing a secure and stable democracy in Iraq.

Each Iraqi government ministry is appointing an inspector general to investigate waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement. So far, 21 inspectors general have been appointed and are beginning to work with the recently established Commission on Public Integrity to combat corruption at every level of government. This is an important step toward restoring public trust and represents another milepost in Iraq's progression to democracy and the rule of law.

The CPA, responding to a Baghdad City Council request, is allocating $10 million to brighten the city's public parks, squares and playgrounds. The funding will provide lighting in the capital's outdoor public places, new murals, sculptures, and landscaping. Revitalization of Baghdad's public areas shows civic pride and is another example of the Iraqis' faith in their future.

Today, most Iraqis have medications to treat a variety of diseases. Before liberation, pharmaceutical distribution was based largely on political loyalties and bribary. Teams of pharmaceutical experts are visiting hospitals across Iraq to determine needs and timely delivery mechanisms. In the past 10 months, the Ministry of Health has delivered more than 25,000 tons of pharmaceuticals and supplies to healthcare facilities. Access to modern medicines is another way that the lives of average Iraqis are improving.

Private sector investment is fueling Iraq's construction industry. At a recent conference in Baghdad, 25 companies from around the world committed billions of dollars in investment capital for reconstruction projects. Through Iraq's Joint Venture Initiative, these companies will provide Iraqi companies with new technology and management training. This is another important step towards building a vibrant, free market economy in Iraq.

With 100 days until the transfer of sovereignty, Iraqis are making great strides in rebuilding their country. Iraq now has more electrical power than before liberation, 18,000 reconstruction projects are complete, and 2,500 schools have been rebuilt. With the economy picking up and a new transitional administrative law in place, Iraq is now on a path to full democracy in a united nation at peace with its neighbors.

Today, Iraq has a fully independent judiciary. More than 600 Iraqi judges conduct trials and administer justice in more than 500 courts across the country. An independent judiciary is a key feature of the Transitional Administrative Law and is critical to instilling confidence in the rule of law and establishing democracy in Iraq.

As Iraq rejoins world markets, the port at Umm Qasr has become a vital resource in expanding the country's economy. More than 65 ships unload grain and other goods at the renovated port every month. All 21 berths are now open to ships, and 243 Iraqi Ports Authority guards help maintain security. These safe, modern, and reliable facilities are serving to boost trade and ensure the efficient delivery of goods to Iraq.

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4 posted on 04/06/2004 6:07:11 AM PDT by Support Free Republic (If Woody had gone straight to the police, this would never have happened!)

I have a feeling that our guys are "getting tough" in Fallujah now. Saw a British reporter last night complaining about news being suppressed form Fallujah. I assume its a good thing, we must be getting tough enough to upset the delicate sensibilities of liberals around the world.

5 posted on 04/06/2004 6:08:56 AM PDT by cripplecreek (you tell em i'm commin.... and hells commin with me.)

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