MADRID, Spain -- Iraq's new basketball federation was recognized by the sport's ruling organization, which plans to provide the country with equipment and technical support.
The International Basketball Federation said Monday it acted on a recommendation by the International Olympic Committee and made the decision at a weekend meeting.
Many Iraqi sports bodies collapsed along with Saddam Hussein's regime in the U.S.-led war.
Iraq is not a basketball power but had an active federation under Saddam. Iraqi players participated in international competitions and the sport is increasingly popular in the country.
FIBA, the international federation, plans to send a team of experts to Iraq. Iraq's basketball needs could range from equipment to advice on rebuilding damaged sports buildings.
Once the sport's infrastructure has been rebuilt, FIBA will provide non-Iraqi basketball coaches to develop talent, FIBA spokesman Florian Wanninger said from Geneva. FIBA also will provide support to Afghanistan and East Timor.
Earlier this year, world soccer's ruling body recognized a new Iraqi soccer federation.
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