Iraq waives levies

CARGO ships ferrying foodstuff to sanctions-hit Iraq will be exempt from fees and other charges levied by Iraqi ports, according to Iraq's Communications and Transport Minister.

Ahmed Murtada Ahmed Khalil, quoted by the official Iraqi News Agency, said the measure was taken 'to prop up the national economy and continue the provision of basic needs to citizens. The Iraqi Ports Authority has decided to exempt ships laden with foodstuffs reaching Mina al-Qasr from all fees and duties', Mr Khalil said.