YouSaid · the spoken record

Melkert

lines on the record: 153
first: 2006-07-24
most recent: 2011-07-19
sittings or episodes: 8
sources: un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“For the foreseeable future, the United Nations will be well placed to remain a trusted partner in this endeavour. In conclusion, I would like to thank the Government of Iraq, including Ambassador Al Bayati, the Security Council and the Secretary-General for the confidence they have vested in me over the past two years in support of my efforts as Special Representative of the Secretary-General to carry out the important mandate entrusted to UNAMI. I also thank the brave and able staff of UNAMI and the United Nations country team for their efforts in supporting the people of Iraq under difficult and challenging conditions.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“Real progress has also been achieved in replacing a ruthless dictatorship with institutions and representatives mandated by constitutional principles and practice. While many challenges remain in the process of ingraining human rights and democracy fundamentals into the minds and actions of all stakeholders, it is hard to see how this change could be reversed. The change, however, has come at an extreme cost, which is still tangible and visible on a daily basis in the victims and the damage, despite the eight years that have gone by. Developments in the region are showing that change must, and eventually will, come primarily from within. The new Iraq will be a real opportunity for all Iraqis only if their leaders are decisive in their action, allies do not turn away in their support, and its sovereignty is respected.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“For Iraq and for the wider region, it is truly significant to note achievements in the Kurdistan region that are a great asset to stability and confidence-building. This generates hope that common sense will prevail in addressing still significant but not insurmountable issues regarding the disputed areas, including Kirkuk. The key will be the readiness of all parties to respect mutual concerns relating to past confrontation and injustices, while substituting for these the recognition that pluralism should be recognized in power-sharing arrangements serving the common interest. As long as the parties in Iraq consider this helpful, I would strongly recommend maintaining international engagement so as to facilitate the processes that may gradually transform disputes into mutually acceptable solutions.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“Underscoring what the Secretary-General has said in his report, I therefore urge all countries in the region to step up their engagement with Iraq with a view to quickly resolving outstanding differences and identifying concrete areas of cooperation in the political, security and development fields that could be beneficial for all concerned. UNAMI, with the support of the Security Council, is prepared to do all it can to support such efforts. Looking inside Iraq, I have been privileged to witness the genuine progress that has been made to replace a horrific past of ethnic confrontation with a future where coexistence and common interest define the interaction between Arabs and Kurds.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“As historically all parts of Iraq are inseparably connected to their neighbours, it remains true that what goes well in Iraq will be of tremendous benefit to the wider region. Steady economic development in Iraq will reinforce regional and international stability. Addressing major political, social and economic challenges could significantly contribute to reducing the space for extremism, including by distributing Iraq's wealth more fairly among its people. Conversely, it is true that what goes well in the region is of benefit to Iraq as well. Sustained engagement on the part of the international community will help to create the space needed to tap into the vast potential of more diverse and integrated economic development and to achieve a level of social progress that will ultimately define the future of the region.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“While these are positive developments, efforts must continue to ensure that fundamental rights and freedoms are protected, notably with regard to the role of the media, and that conditions in detention facilities comply with international conventions. For UNAMI, last week was an historic week of transition from years of support by United States forces to enhanced cooperation with the Iraqi security forces, and I would like to commend the Government for its strong commitment to the protection of United Nations staff. At my completion of a two-year period as the guest of the Iraqi people, I would like to conclude with some personal observations. From the international perspective, there is every reason for strongly welcoming the return of Iraq as a full and respected member of the international community.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“Noteworthy in that context is the essential support that the United Nations Population Fund recently provided to the Government for the successful completion of the dwelling and household part of the census. On the human rights front, several initiatives were launched at the national and regional levels. In early June, the draft national action plan on human rights was discussed at a conference hosted by Prime Minister Al-Maliki in the Council of Representatives. During the discussions, more than 100 recommendations were incorporated into the plan. They cover issues affecting women's rights, children's rights, minorities, the rule of law, freedom of expression, internally displaced persons and refugees. In the Kurdistan region, its Parliament passed a law combating domestic violence in the region.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“The Secretary-General has also consistently reminded the Iraqi Prime Minister that a letter from him reaffirming Iraq's commitment to its land and maritime boundaries with Kuwait under resolution 833 (1993) is an essential confidence-building measure. In this context, the Secretary-General's High-level 3 Coordinator and I both remain committed to assisting Iraq and Kuwait in bringing closure to these long- standing Security Council mandates. The implementation of the United Nations Development Assistance Framework, formulated to support the National Development Plan, remains ongoing, with two main pillars: a $33-million private- sector development programme and a $55-million public-sector one.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“Their decision to form a Joint Ministerial Committee is an important step towards finding viable solutions to their outstanding bilateral concerns, including those that have recently generated public discussion. Notwithstanding those bilateral efforts, which I hope will be successful, Iraq, as the Secretary- General's report indicates, must demonstrate to the Council tangible and expeditious progress in implementing its outstanding Chapter VII obligations pertaining to Kuwait. These include missing Kuwaiti persons and property, as well as the Iraq-Kuwait boundary maintenance project and citizens' relocation.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“With that purpose in mind, I visited the coordination centres of the combined security mechanism in the provinces of Kirkuk, Ninewa and Diyala in order to enable UNAMI to advise and assist, as per its mandate, the Government of Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government on the future of the mechanism and the possibility of continued international engagement, if requested. While Iraq's internal affairs continue to require additional efforts to strengthen stability, the regional context requires attention as well. With Kuwait, Iraq shares not only a border but also a history and a future. Earlier this year, a breakthrough was achieved as a consequence of mutual visits by the respective Prime Ministers, and by the subsequent work on a comprehensive bilateral agenda under the auspices of their Foreign Ministers.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“Discussions have further focused on power sharing in Ninewa, the conditions for conducting a census and the future of the combined 11-42035 security mechanism, which, under the auspices of United States Forces-Iraq, has contributed significantly to cooperation and coordination between the Iraqi security forces and the Peshmerga. Maintaining security stability is important in the short run, provided that genuine efforts are made to address the underlying issues that have been a source of political controversy. The Mission is committed to helping stakeholders find common ground and mutually acceptable solutions to these and other issues in order to resolve the status of Kirkuk and other disputed areas. It is of great interest to Iraq and the international community that these overall positive experiences be consolidated and strengthened.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“UNAMI stands ready to advise the Council of Representatives on the procedure that will be essential to consolidating independence and standards for organizing elections in the coming period. I am pleased to report that UNAMI has continued to facilitate dialogue within the framework of the standing consultative mechanism. Importantly, interaction among key leaders within Kirkuk province has been positively affected by a new power-sharing arrangement between key representatives of the Kurdish, Arab and Turkmen components. Furthermore, UNAMI hosted all Council of Representatives members elected in Kirkuk as part of ongoing consultations on the conditions that would enable the delayed Provincial Council elections to take place in the near future.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“It is important to note that on 10 July all leaders of the main political blocs met at the invitation of President Talabani in order to step up efforts to revitalize the spirit of consensus and look at ways to implement the Erbil agreement. Discussions also focused on the issue of the expiration of the bilateral status-of-forces agreement between Iraq and the United States. However, the indications at my most recent meetings do not provide grounds for optimism about a breakthrough any time soon. Another issue that would benefit from consensus between parties is the mandate and selection of the next Independent High Electoral Commission in the course of next year.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“The key to this remains the implementation of the November 2010 Erbil agreement that brought the signatures of Prime Minister Al-Maliki, Kurdistan Regional Government President Barzani and Iraqiya leader Allawi together under an agreed power-sharing arrangement. As appointments of ministers in the security ministries are still pending and the National Council for Strategic Policies has not yet been formed, there is understandable concern about whether the post- election spirit can prevail. In this context, as stressed in the report before the Council, the Secretary-General calls on Iraqi political leaders to put aside their differences and move swiftly to agree on the way forward.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“Reconstruction, institution- building and bringing back knowledge all take time. There have also been setbacks as armed opposition groups continue to try to undo positive developments, most notably in waves of kidnappings and assassinations targeting civil servants, holders of political office, academics, doctors and activists, undoubtedly impacting State- and society-building at this crucial time. These and other acts of violence, which unfortunately have not subsided in recent months, emphasize once more the need for determined, jointly shared political action against the perpetrators, Wherever they may derive their support from. 11-42035 Consolidating and further strengthening the indisputable gains will require a keen understanding of the need to resolve pending issues.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“Iraq's economy, meanwhile, continues to grow at a rate of over 10 per cent, with oil revenues at a higher level than projected and updates on proven reserves reconfirming Iraq's prominence in global oil production for a long time to come. Total foreign direct investment in 2010 increased by almost 50 per cent against the previous year, up to a level of just over $42 billion. Areas that have benefited include construction, transportation, electricity, industry, oil and gas, water and sanitation, health and agriculture. At the same time Iraq's poverty index remains high at 22.9 per cent. Such inequality poses an instability risk for the future. These political and economic facts matter in a country that has suffered much during three decades of war and oppression.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“In the words of Foreign Minister Zebari, speaking of Iraq and the wider region: "The time of the single-party State and the ruling party is over This era is at an end." In the slipstream of events in the region, demonstrations have been recognized as a legitimate way to express opinions or grievances, although all too often the practice of freedom of expression is under considerable pressure. Still, the Government and the Council of Representatives have embarked on a true debate about the policies that need to be put in place in order to modernize infrastructure and the economy, improve social services delivery and combat institutional lethargy and corruption.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“The Iraqi system of Government incorporates a power-sharing Constitution, guaranteeing the participation of women and minorities and nurturing a culture of ongoing constitutional debate. Regular elections have taken place, conducted in line with international standards. 2 While drawn out, Government formation has indeed progressed. Meanwhile, Parliament is taking an increasingly important role in decision-making. And in a departure from decades of authoritarian regime, negotiations between all parties have become the predominant feature of political life.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“Mr. Melkert: I thank you, Sir, for this opportunity to introduce the Secretary-General's latest report (S/2011/435) on the activities of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). This comes at an important time when the Council will be considering UNAMI's mandate renewal next week. "Are you optimistic or are you pessimistic?" has been the question I have been asked most by many. As we know, events tend to shape intents at least as much as the other way around. In most of what I have witnessed in Iraq there is ground for cautious optimism, provided that determined leadership within the country and a stronger spirit of cooperation in the region with Iraq prevail. In some important aspects, Iraq is at the heart of fundamental changes in the region.”
2011-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6586 (2011) · source
“Finally, I would like to once again thank the Security Council for today's opportunity. On a personal note, I would like to add that while living and working in Baghdad, I have observed the start of the removal of endless lines of concrete T-walls over the past months. It is symbolic of considerable progress to overcome the years of war, conflict and sanctions that have plagued the country, and to bring normality to Iraq's international standing and the daily life of its people. Increasingly, the prospect for Baghdadis and residents of other parts of the country to regain the space and beauty of their cities no longer seems a dream of the past. With determination and decisiveness in Iraq, the United Nations is committed to assisting in building a better future for its people.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“The situation confronting us is unprecedented, and further complicated by the urgent need to ensure the continued safety and security of our international and national staff. To that end, we look forward to, first, the continuation of Member State support through the provision of additional United Nations guards; secondly, final approval for the enlargement of our compound in Baghdad, which is a more cost-effective and quicker alternative to the original plan for new 11-29308 construction, as a basis for the future one UN-house; and, thirdly, the construction of UNAMI premises in Kirkuk and Basra. I am pleased to report a generally productive level of cooperation with and support by the Government of Iraq, and we look forward to further results of our presence in the near future.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“I have expressed the hope that both parties will now seize this unique opportunity to show leadership in settling a complex and painful conflict, at a time during which the region is searching for new perspectives of cooperation and development as a substitute for conflict and stagnation. Allow me to express my appreciation for the support that the General Assembly has provided in approving a substantial increase in UNAMI'S budget to enable us to respond to the huge operational challenges we face. To become self-reliant, we need to generate a full range of logistics, security and life-support resources. We are doing so in close cooperation with the Government of Iraq and the Iraqi security forces. However, there are many uncertainties, and at times cumbersome procedures, that may stand in the way of a seamless and timely transition.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“On 27 and 28 March, Foreign Ministers Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah and Hoshyar Zebari headed the first meeting of the joint ministerial committee established to look into all issues concerning the two countries, with the resolution of the outstanding Chapter VII issues as a priority. I have received reports from both Governments that the atmosphere of the meeting was quite positive and that the discussions on highly sensitive issues for both sides were constructive. I am confident that the expected reaffirmation of the land and maritime boundaries pursuant to resolution 833 (1993) by the Government of Iraq is now Within reach. In turn, there is now a basis for achieving full mutual understanding of the principle of unimpeded maritime access to Iraqi ports.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“On 16 February, Prime Minister al-Maliki paid a historic visit to Kuwait, which provided an opportunity for an in-depth exchange of views on all issues relevant to both parties. Further evidence of a new chapter in the relations between the two countries was provided by President Talabani's attendance at the fiftieth anniversary of the creation of the State of Kuwait and the twentieth anniversary of its United Nations- mandated liberation, in 1991. Importantly, members of Iraq's Parliament and representatives of its business community, media and civil society have joined hands with their Kuwaiti counterparts in looking ahead towards a brighter future.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“On 12 January, the Prime Minister of Kuwait, Sheikh Naser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, visited the Government in Baghdad, the first such visit since 1991. During my visit to Kuwait on 1 February, I felt strongly encouraged by the commitment expressed by the Emir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and Government interlocutors to advance progress and the resolution of issues with Iraq as part of a full normalization of relations between the two countries, both of which recognize that they stand to gain from cooperation in all areas. Following that visit, I shared with both sides identical suggestions for a road map to address outstanding issues, in line with the guidance by the Secretary-General and the Views expressed by Council members in December.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“With respect to the future of that mechanism, if requested by the parties, I believe that UNAMI could play a possible liaising and facilitating role between all the parties with a View to maintaining peace and stability and in line with its mandate to develop "processes acceptable to the Government of Iraq to resolve disputed internal boundaries" (resolution 1770 (2007), para. 2 (a) (iii)). Turning to the situation between Iraq and Kuwait, I would like to recall the importance of the resolutions adopted by the Council on 15 December (resolutions 1956 (2010), 1957 (2010) and 1958 (2010)), which accelerated the normalization of Iraq's standing within the international community. The Council's decision served as a strong incentive for Iraq and Kuwait to step up efforts to resolve outstanding issues between them.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“With our assistance, on 27 March, an agreement was reached by Government officials and representatives of the main political parties to work with UNAMI on key outstanding issues through a standing consultation mechanism that would provide a forum for preventive multilateral consultation in cases of potential conflict. It was also agreed that further meetings in April and May would be held to discuss Kirkuk, Ninewa, the national census and the combined security mechanism.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“In line with the call by the Security Council on 15 December 2010 (see S/PV.6450) for intensified efforts to move towards a negotiated political agreement, UNAMI is exploring with Government and political leaders possible modalities to ensure such a process of dialogue. Building on the work of the high-level task force, which has led to better understanding on issues related to property, language and detainees, as well as on the protection of minorities, I am pleased to report that some encouraging preliminary progress has been made.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“This movement of troops was not coordinated via the combined security mechanism established between the Iraqi Army and Kurdish Peshmerga forces under the auspices of the United States Forces in Iraq. In a meeting with President Barzani, I expressed my concern about this action and the fact that it occurred outside the framework aimed at preventing tensions on the ground along the disputed boundaries. On the basis of the most recent information, it appears that efforts from many sides have indeed led to the Peshmerga forces returning to their original positions. Those events underscore the need for discussion on the future of the triangular combined security mechanism and the process to resolve the country's disputed internal boundaries.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“Stability and long-term prosperity in Iraq will also depend on progress made with respect to national reconciliation and, in particular, the resolution of disputed internal boundaries and the status of Kirkuk. In that regard, I would like to bring to the attention of the Council some of the recent events that have taken place. As described in the report of the Secretary- General, following a day of demonstrations in Kirkuk province on 25 February, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) deployed about 5,000 Peshmerga forces into the province, effectively encircling the disputed city of Kirkuk. KRG authorities later explained that this was in response to the alleged threat of attacks against Kurdish citizens by former regime elements and extremist groups in the province.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“For its part, UNAMI is working closely with the Council of Representatives and the Government towards the establishment of an independent high commission for human rights. As the 11-29308 law is already in place, we have now been requested to assist with the recruitment of members and to advise on best practice. As I speak, UNAMI is concerned about reports of recent violent incidents in Camp Ashraf, which have resulted in deaths and injuries. I reiterate that efforts are needed to stop violence and aim to peacefully resolve all issues. I would like to call on the Government of Iraq to enable a UNAMI mission to monitor the situation on the ground.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“As United States forces prepare to leave, Iraq should not be forgotten, and the international community should stand ready to continue its support. The call for change in Iraq also reflects people's demands for stronger and more systematic observance of fundamental human rights. While the Government has explicitly upheld the principle of the right to demonstrate, violent incidents have taken place in different parts of the country, resulting in the deaths and injury of many Iraqi citizens. On a number of occasions, restrictions were placed on effective participation in demonstrations and on free reporting by the media. I hope that the relevant authorities will look into these incidents and take steps to ensure that these basic rights are protected.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“The targeting of various communities and terror attacks on Government structures, such as the one of 29 March against the Salahaddin provincial council building, which killed at least 76 people and injured almost 100 others, continue to remind us of destructive minds and agendas at play. Furthermore, the possibility that some may try to exploit some of the developments in the region to inflame sectarian tensions should not be discarded. While the overall trend in security incidents in recent months suggests a downward slope, an average of 25 incidents per day were still reported over the past month. Yet the Government, security forces and society continue their efforts to make decisive progress towards stability and normalization.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“With the announcement by Mr. Ayad Allawi, on 3 March, of his decision not to chair the proposed national council for higher policies, it is as yet unclear how power-sharing agreements reached during the Government formation negotiations in November 2010 will be effectively followed. I would therefore urge political leaders to set aside their differences and bring the Government formation process to a close. This should help the Government of Iraq to live up to its promise to those who voted in March 2010. While developments in Iraq are no longer at the forefront of international media coverage, Iraq's stability is still under pressure.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“Specific initiatives were also proposed to support the dialogue between the Government of Iraq and civil society, with an emphasis on the promotion of human rights. In addition, next month, bilateral donors, the World Bank and the United Nations will meet with a Cabinet delegation to review the policy recommendations relating to Iraq's economic and social development and institutional capacity-building, which were presented to the Government by the Iraq Partners Forum in the so- called "Iraq Briefing Book". Pending issues from the Government formation still require attention. The appointment this week of the 11-29308 Minister of Planning will hopefully contribute to fostering progress on the social and economic front. I remain concerned, however, that agreement on key security ministerial portfolios has yet to be reached.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“Other initiatives have also been announced, including cuts in defence expenditures and Government salaries, as well as in tackling corruption. Together with Deputy Special Representative for Humanitarian, Reconstruction and Development Affairs Christine McNab, on behalf of the United Nations country team, we initiated discussions with the Prime Minister on how the United Nations could further support his Government's efforts. Subject to the Government's approval and co-financing support, we proposed to implement a list of projects that could rapidly be expanded and fast-tracked to address, in particular, youth employment, health and nutrition, solid waste management, the public distribution of food rations and access to water.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“An estimated 78 per cent of Iraq's population is under 35 years of age, and 43 per cent is under 15. Youth constitute over 50 per cent of the total unemployment rate, about 1 million people. In addition, less than 40 per cent of children are enrolled in school after their primary education, and only 21 per cent are enrolled in the last two years of secondary school. These statistics paint a picture of a young population with few prospects for the future. Iraqi elected officials are taking these issues seriously and have shown a renewed determination to act decisively. Prime Minister ai-Maliki has tasked Cabinet ministers with ensuring that, within 100 days, viable plans are introduced to achieve tangible progress in the key areas of job creation and service delivery.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“While Iraq has made remarkable strides in its democratic transition in recent years, which included the adoption of a Constitution, credible national elections, a broad national partnership Government and an opening environment for media and civil society, the people of Iraq are now demanding the dividends that were promised by their leaders. At the core of the protests that have been taking place across Iraq since 25 February are legitimate concerns about better employment opportunities, the delivery of basic services and accountability. Unless these 2 demands are addressed, the political and democratic gains made thus far may seem hollow to many ordinary Iraqis, and this will be no easy task for the Government of Iraq. How to create opportunities and respond to the aspirations of young people will be key.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“Mr. Melkert: I would like to thank you, Sir, for this opportunity to brief the Council on the implementation of the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) and the situation in Iraq. As indicated in the report of the Secretary- General (S/2011/213), while notable progress was made during the past four months, particularly with the formation of a new national partnership Government, many challenges remain. The unfolding events in the region to which Iraq belongs and the persistent calls for change are of major significance.”
2011-04-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6511 (2011) · source
“I wish to assure the Council that the Secretary-General and UNAMI will endeavour to implement whatever new mandate the Security Council establishes, working for the benefit of the people of Iraq.”
2010-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6368 (2010) · source
“I would like to remind the Council that a great number of United Nations staff members are still operating under challenging working and living conditions. A clear signal of ongoing commitment and support is critical to all those who are dedicating themselves to helping the Iraqi people build a peaceful and prosperous country. In conclusion, Iraq has made considerable progress since 2003. It has come a long way in consolidating its peace and security and promoting the welfare of its Citizens. Nevertheless, we cannot underestimate the challenges that it still faces. It is essential that the Security Council and the international community as a whole do their utmost to ensure that all necessary support continues to be provided to Iraq until such time that it can reach its full potential.”
2010-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6368 (2010) · source
“We have engaged with the Government of Iraq to ensure that the conditions for the future United Nations presence in the country are on a secure and sustainable foundation, which will require finalization of the United Nations-Iraq status of mission agreement and an increase in the Organization's own security and operational capacity encompassing aviation, transport, infrastructure and life support. I must stress that, in order to keep the United Nations presence at current or even higher levels, adequate financial resources from Member States will inevitably be required. I call upon the Council to weigh the implications of this particular period of transition as part of its consideration of the extension of the UNAMI mandate.”
2010-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6368 (2010) · source
“I hope that the actions taken by the new Government in this regard will create a new momentum for the Secretary- General's report pursuant to resolution 1859 (2008), which was submitted last July and remains pending with the Security Council. UNAMI continues its work to assist parties in this endeavour. In a climate of uncertainty and volatility, UNAMI and the United Nations country team continue to work on the basis of their respective mandates in order to provide to the Government and people of Iraq, at their request, the kind of support that will contribute to stability, investments and long-term development. I should inform the Council that the practical implications of the United States military drawdown are now starting to have an impact on our operations.”
2010-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6368 (2010) · source
“With the new Ambassador of Iraq having arrived in Kuwait, conditions for a results-oriented dialogue have improved. Entering an era of good-neighbourliness would serve as the necessary response to relevant Security Council resolutions, in particular resolution 833 (1993), and at the same time be of great mutual benefit for trade and development. Once the formation process is complete, it is essential that the new Government move quickly to fulfil Iraq's outstanding obligations under Chapter VII resolutions, which are necessary for Iraq to achieve international standing equal to that which it held prior to the adoption of these resolutions.”
2010-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6368 (2010) · source
“Efforts to establish clear and sustainable security arrangements for the years ahead remain vital. It is my hope that the process to end the boycott of the Ninewa Provincial Council will gain momentum, particularly as clarity and progress are achieved on some of the efforts just outlined. It is also hoped that the Ninewa talks will create a positive atmosphere for addressing the issue of disputed internal boundaries and improving relations between Arabs and Kurds. Concerning Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter and relations with Kuwait, I should like to refer to my visit on 20 June to Kuwait, as well as various informal exchanges, which have confirmed that the time has come for a serious concerted effort to draw outstanding issues to a close.”
2010-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6368 (2010) · source
“Following last year's initiative by Deputy Prime Minister al-Issawi, UNAMI has continued to support efforts to achieve progress in relation to Ninewa residents currently in detention in the Kurdistan region. Additionally, as part of this process a forum has been created for Ninewa's various minority communities to come together to identify ways to protect their rights. Central to the discussion in Ninewa is the handling of security arrangements between the Government of Iraq and Kurdistan regional security forces. The trilateral combined security agreement between the federal security forces, the Kurdistan Regional Government security forces, and the United States Forces in Iraq that currently operate in the disputed areas has made significant progress towards confronting instability in 3 these areas.”
2010-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6368 (2010) · source
“However, that will still take time, and time is not on the side of Iraqis who require significant support right now. Once the Government formation process has been completed, it is imperative that Iraqi leaders continue to make national reconciliation a priority and address the many outstanding political and constitutional challenges facing the country. This includes Arab- Kurdish relations, particularly as they relate to disputed internal boundaries, revenue-sharing, legislation related to hydrocarbons, the federal framework and the constitutional review process. One area that I am pleased to report on is our serious efforts to promote dialogue in Ninewa governorate.”
2010-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6368 (2010) · source
“After the signing of the United Nations Development Assistance Framework, many United Nations agencies are preparing for their part in the international technical assistance and advice that should accelerate progress on the ground. I must, however, express a word of concern on the less than clear strategic involvement of the international community in its support for Iraq. Recently, the Humanitarian Coordinator appealed to donors "not to give up their commitment to the Iraqi people", as only 12 per cent of the required $187 million sought for the 2010 Humanitarian Action Plan for Iraq had been received. Clearly, contributions from Iraq's national budget should provide the lion's share for development and humanitarian action in the future.”
2010-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6368 (2010) · source
“The Government has made electricity production a priority. Shortages will take several years to overcome, meanwhile negatively affecting prospects for employment and economic growth. In furtherance of identifying the development agenda, on 26 July I chaired the Global Open Day for Women and Peace, in celebration of the tenth anniversary of resolution 1325 (2000), in Iraq. The meeting, widely attended by women parliamentarians and civil society leaders, called for wide-ranging legal reform, technical support for reconciliation and advocacy for gender equality. 10-47406 With the National Development Plan as a basis, the Government has set its priorities to address features of underdevelopment in a country with such rich resources. Yet political delays stand in the way of appointments, mandates and capacity-building.”
2010-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6368 (2010) · source
“There is no reason to be pessimistic as yet, for Iraq has embarked on an historic path that will shape the future of the country. However, the onus is ultimately on Iraqi leaders to ensure an orderly and peaceful transition of power. This is owed to the people of Iraq and expected by the international community. Further delays in the formation of a Government are also impacting on the country's basic infrastructure and services, affecting the livelihood and well-being of Iraqi citizens. Recent protests in a number of cities denouncing the lack of electricity are a sign of potentially growing disillusionment and anger over what has become a situation of daily life for the average Iraqi citizen. The supply of electricity is at about 67 per cent of peak demand, with periods of blackout still averaging more than nine hours per day nationally.”
2010-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6368 (2010) · source