Baghdad- British Minister for International Development Douglas Alexander arrived in the southern Iraqi city of Basra on Thursday to attend the opening of a conference on investment.

"Basra is entering a new investment phase, which will open more economic opportunities," Alexander said. Britain will work on hiring a special consultant for this purpose, he added.

Basra governor Mohamed al-Waili said that in the coming year Basra has investment plans in the fields of oil, tourism, and services.

Known for its rich oil fields, Basra is also highly influenced politically by Iran. (dpa)