Iraq - Travel Report

On June 28, 2004, the Iraqi Interim Government assumed sovereign governing authority in Iraq. Conditions in Iraq are extremely dangerous and the risk of terrorism directed against U.S. citizens and interests remains extremely high. The Multinational Force-Iraq (MNF-I) is assisting the Iraqi government in providing security throughout the country. The capital is Baghdad. The average GDP is $38.79 billion (2003 est.). The major export commodity is crude oil. The major import commodities are food, medicine, and manufactures. The main trade partners are US, Taiwan, Canada, France, Jordan, Netherlands, Italy, Morocco, Spain, Russia, and Australia. The predominant religion is Muslim therefore the majority of the population observes traditional Muslim holidays. The banking and financial infrastructure has been disrupted and is in the process of rebuilding. Hotels usually require payment in foreign currency. No ATM machines exist. Restrictions on the use of the U.S. passport have been lifted. There is very limited international phone service in Iraq at this time. There are no public telephones in the cities; however, calls may be made from hotels, restaurants or shops. Limited cellular telephone service is available in Baghdad. Public Internet service is not available.