Thanks for yourr honesty GregHi!
Many years we here have heard many stories from those living in the middle east, myself included (kuwait). Many rumors and excitement which mostly ended and the 'Intel' faded into a rumor.
It is always refreshing to hear an honest story that actually may be supported by news articles.
Regardless of the level of involvement your contact has, he is no doubt changed by it and has become a dinarian!
If the people and govt of Iraq believe they can and should recover from these years of despotic leadership and become wealthy once more, they will succeed.
Dubai was nothing but desert 20 years ago now it is an integral hub of economy and business for the entire region.
So shall Iraq be in our lifetime ( crossed fingers emoji ?!)
Once a year rant over hehehe
GO RV!!!