MoD Information

Iraq Wants Peaceful Outcome

Sat, February 15, 2003

Source: Ananova News

UN Ambassador Mohammed Al-Douri told the Security Council his country wants a peaceful solution to the crisis through inspections

Iraq says it is committed to full co-operation with UN weapons inspectors. UN Ambassador Mohammed Al-Douri told the Security Council his country wants a peaceful solution to the crisis through inspections.

"We join the calls of those who do believe that the best means to resolve these issues is continuing proactive cooperation with the inspectors," he said.

"We do not stand with those who want failure for the inspection work."

Mr Al-Douri urged the council to follow the wishes of the vast majority of the council members and follow "the path of dialogue" and cooperation leading to peace.

He underscored the new commitments his government made creating two commissions to search for any weapons material and documents, and handing over 24 new documents to inspectors that he said include new information on Iraq's arsenal.

"We would like to stress that Iraq has chosen the path of peace," Mr Al-Douri said. "We want to reach solutions that satisfy the international community.

"We are prepared to provide all means to assist in clarifying the real picture to avoid the objectives of those who are ill-intentioned, who wish to ignite a war in Iraq with incalculable consequences toward clear colonial objectives."

Mr Al-Douri complained that despite Iraq's cooperation, Baghdad continues to face accusations from the United States that it is in "material breach" of UN resolutions - a legal phrase that could trigger war.

"If we do not possess such weapons, how can we disarm ourselves?," he asked. "Indeed, how can they be disarmed if they don't exist?"