So, let’s see. They can’t keep the lights on or the water running in parts of Iraq. But at the same time the US is building the world’s largest embassy in Iraq, supposedly with a foot print large enough to look like a small city from outer space.
The locals don’t like it, (not surprised) and call it George W’s palace. According to this article in the Times Online, it is the only US construction project on time and on budget in Iraq. Small comfort I’m guessing.
After roughing it in Saddam’s abandoned palaces, diplomats should have every comfort in their new home. There will be impressive residences for the Ambassador and his deputy, six apartments for senior officials, and two huge office blocks for 8,000 staff to work in. There will be what is rumoured to be the biggest swimming pool in Iraq, a state-of-the-art gymnasium, a cinema, restaurants offering delicacies from favourite US food chains, tennis courts and a swish American Club for evening functions.
Our tax dollars at work.
