Iraq’s southern city of Basra has approved construction of a 25-storey hotel, a shopping mall and plans to grant further licenses for other projects, said the chairman of the city’s investment authority. Ali Gasib said the luxury hotel would be located near the Shatt Al Arab river in south Iraq, while the shopping facility would be situated next to Basra Sports City. Without divulging costs or revealing the investors, Ali said: “We have approved these projects and would soon grant licenses for investors. We are also considering permits for other projects in the governorate.” The project is part of a new stage of reconstruction in the city. Source: Travel Daily