Haitham Rashid Wihaib is in ebullient mood. The former chief of protocol in Saddam Hussein’s private office for 11 years is bursting to tell stories of his fascinating past and what he plans to do in the future.

Dr Wihaib has been living in London since 1995 after fleeing Iraq following several assassination attempts. Now he sees an opportunity to help Iraq’s recovery (see article on Iraq’s economy on page 86) after years of corruption and under investment.

With the help of Alan Frame, managing director of Equity Marketing, Dr Wihaib has set up the New Iraqi Research and Consultation Project.

The aim of the project is to advise companies on the opportunities, benefits and problems of investing in rebuilding Iraq using Dr Wihaib’s local knowledge and contacts. Dr Wihaib places particular emphasis on sustainable and responsible investment into the massive natural resources sector.

Other sectors that he is keen on promoting include electricity, water and waste infrastructure. He regards the help of the business community as vital to the development of the country.

Mr Wihaib is optimistic that fast progress can be made. He points to the fact that commercial airlines are already queuing up to fly into the Iraqi capital. KLM has scheduled flights to start at the beginning of September with United Airlines and NorthWest Airlines are also showing interest. Initial enthusiasm from Virgin Airways appears to have subsided. That is not surprising in view of the serious security threats.

Mr Wihaib may have his work cut out for him: even oil companies have been forced to back away from investing in Iraq due to lack of security and legitimate authority in the country.