US inaugurates $700m embassy in Iraqi Green Zone

THE United States inaugurated its largest embassy ever in the heart of the Green Zone yesterday, officially opening the fortress-like compound that was built as a testament to America’s commitment to Iraq.

Addressing an inauguration ceremony under tight security, US ambassador Ryan Crocker said the $700 million (€515m) embassy was testimony to America’s long-term friendship with Iraq, where about 146,000 US troops are deployed.

“From this embassy in the years to come, we look forward to building our partnership and contributing to the future,” Crocker said.