Iraq to build new shipyard

Iraq’s government has announced plans to build an $850m shipbuilding and repair facility at its Gulf seaport. A government statement said a company belonging to the Iraqi Industry Ministry will manage the design and construction of the shipyard in the port of Khor al-Zubeir and would be used to build specialized small ships, supply vessels, naval patrol boats and tugs. The facility, which will also offer repair and maintenance facilities for foreign ships visiting Iraq, is expected to begin operations by the end of 2011.