For the first time, Swedish development assistance is going to Iraqi businessmen wanting to invest in Iraq - despite the ongoing conflict. Swedes are hoping that new companies would provide badly needed jobs - not only for those already in Iraq but also among the refugees returning from Sweden and other countries.

Meanwhile, Sweden has signed an agreement with Iraqi to return refugees who are not given asylum in Sweden.

Swedish immigration authorities insist that Iraqis can be sent home - despite protests that their lives could be in danger because of the continuing suicide bombings and fighting in Iraq.

This Nordic nation has received the majority of Iraqi refugees fleeing to Europe, has called on other European Union members to share the burden.

Source: By Sveriges Radio 2008