Comptrollers Discuss Budget Challenges with MoD

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

12.17.2009

Story by Capt. Keli Chevalier 

Multi-National Security Transition Command Iraq Public Affairs

BAGHDAD, Iraq— The American Society of Military Comptrollers, Desert Eagle Chapter meeting was held Dec. 9 to open dialogue with the Iraq Ministry of Defense, Directorate General for Intelligence and Security financial managers.

Audrea Nelson, CDFM/Resources Advisor for the Iraq Training and Advisory Mission for Intelligence provided an overview of the full spectrum of the ITAM-INTEL resources and financial management advising role provided to DGIS.

Iraqi and U.S. Military Comptrollers gain a better understanding of how to improve daily financial operations through dialog, said Nelson.

Lt. Col. Emad Youssef Elias, Director of Budget and Requests emphasized that Iraq relies on oil revenues in projecting available funding for the nation. Due to continued shortfalls in oil revenue generation, Emad said "Iraq continues to face budget constraints." Because of the lack of surplus funds, it is imperative that every MoD organization closely monitor budget execution said Emad.

Staff Brig. Gen. Mahmoud Rashid Fayat, Director for Administrative Affairs expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to share information with the ASMC members. In a related event, the ribbon cutting ceremony for the DGIS headquarters, a $34.7M infrastructure project gifted to Iraq by the U.S. Government was held Dec. 14. "[Iraq] is most grateful for the contributions the U.S. has provided in rebuilding Iraq's capacity," said Mahmoud.

Lt. Justin Gabbard, USAF, President, ASMC Desert Eagle Chapter thanked SBG Mahmoud and his team of Comptrollers for engaging in the discussions. He said, "It was a humbling experience to listen to some of the obstacles the DGIS financial managers are faced with in securing annual budgets and in maintaining financial transparency."

• Date Taken: 12.17.2009
• Date Posted: 12.17.2009 03:27
• Story ID: 42869
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ