Official language:
Arabic

Other languages:
Armenian
Assyrian
Kurdish

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• Traditional social relationships, in which the family, the extended family, and the tribe were the prime focus, remain fundamentally important in rural areas but are under pressure in the towns.
  
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• Soups and stews are prepared with vegetables and meat. Meat (beef, lamb, poultry) and fish are eaten with rice and vegetables (aubergines, beans, chickpeas, lentils, okra, onions, peppers, potatoes and tomatoes).
• Stuffed vegetables are popular and lamb is also stuffed and roasted.
• Another traditional dish is spiced minced meat with nuts and raisins.
• Kebabs, usually made with lamb, are a favorite meal and flat white bread is a staple food.Pastries are prepared with almond and date fillings and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Baklava is a popular pastry with layers of nuts and honey. Other desserts are made with milk, cream and rice.
• Tea is drunk with lemon and coffee is preferred strong and sweet. A traditional yogurt drink is often served.
  
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• Iraq is known for producing fine handicrafts, including rugs and carpets.
  
  
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