ICTSI inaugurates Basra Gateway Terminal expansion area
MANILA's International Container Terminal Services Inc (ICTSI) has formally opened the US$130 million first phase of its new Basra Gateway Terminal in Umm Qasr, Iraq.
When fully developed, the new terminal area will have a 600-metre quay and 50 hectares of yard area.
"Today represents a milestone in the development of Iraq's shipping infrastructure," said ICTSI chairman and president Enrique Razon as he cut the ribbon, opening the BGT expansion area, the first entirely foreign financed new port in Iraq.
Iraqi Transport Minister Kadhem Finjan al-Hamami was in attendance as Mr Razon cut the ribbon, after which the first container was lifted by one of the two new ship-to-shore cranes installed at the terminal.
Also present was Basra Governor Majid Al-Nasrawy, GCPI port director Riyadh Swadi Shamkhi Al Hammad and Philippines charge d'affaires Elmer Cato, together with ICTSI senior management.
Said Mr Razon: "ICTSI's commitment to Iraq is evidenced in major investments in the upgrade of existing berths 19, 20 and the construction of the new terminal incorporating Berth 27.
Said Basta terminal CEO Phillip Marsham: "This is a special day for BGT and Umm Qasr Port, with the project completed on time. The support of GCPI and all the involved agencies in Iraq has made this possible."
MANILA's International Container Terminal Services Inc (ICTSI) has formally opened the US$130 million first phase of its new Basra Gateway Terminal in Umm Qasr, Iraq.
When fully developed, the new terminal area will have a 600-metre quay and 50 hectares of yard area.
"Today represents a milestone in the development of Iraq's shipping infrastructure," said ICTSI chairman and president Enrique Razon as he cut the ribbon, opening the BGT expansion area, the first entirely foreign financed new port in Iraq.
Iraqi Transport Minister Kadhem Finjan al-Hamami was in attendance as Mr Razon cut the ribbon, after which the first container was lifted by one of the two new ship-to-shore cranes installed at the terminal.
Also present was Basra Governor Majid Al-Nasrawy, GCPI port director Riyadh Swadi Shamkhi Al Hammad and Philippines charge d'affaires Elmer Cato, together with ICTSI senior management.
Said Mr Razon: "ICTSI's commitment to Iraq is evidenced in major investments in the upgrade of existing berths 19, 20 and the construction of the new terminal incorporating Berth 27.
Said Basta terminal CEO Phillip Marsham: "This is a special day for BGT and Umm Qasr Port, with the project completed on time. The support of GCPI and all the involved agencies in Iraq has made this possible."