Iraqi funds in U.S. protected until late 2009- envoy

BAGHDAD / IraqiNews.com: Iraqi revenues from oil sales in the United States are protected until the end of the current year in accordance with the security agreement signed between the two countries, the Iraqi envoy to the country said on Saturday. “Iraqi proceeds from oil sales that are deposited into the Development Fund for Iraq (DFI) are safeguarded from compensation claims made by individuals and companies until December 31, 2009,” Samir al-Sumaidaie told IraqiNews.com news agency. Some individuals and companies are seeking compensation for crimes committed under former President Saddam Hussein. The Iraqi envoy said that his embassy will work hard to ensure that these funds will be used to provide infrastructure in Iraq. SS (P) 1