Register - WIN a $10,000 Safari | Login  Iraq, a nation reborn
with everything to gain  June 30, 2004  The transference of
power from the coalition to the new Iraqi government is a
monumental event in the history of the Middle East and a sign of
better things to come ("A handshake, and Iraqis are in charge",
Herald, June 29).  Managed well, a democratic Iraq will help to
facilitate a more prosperous nation for the millions who starved
and suffered while the Saddam loyalists got fat and rich. With
Western money and business poured into the cradle of
civilisation, Iraq can become a powerhouse of industry as seen
in postwar Germany and Japan.  While it is true that Australia
and other coalition nations will benefit greatly from trade and
commerce with the new democracy, it is the people of Iraq and
other Middle Eastern states who will gain the most. Terrorism
will be weakened in a prosperous region and increased tourism to
ancient splendours will help both West and East reconnect at a
cultural level.  In time, a