YouSaid · the spoken record

Zebari

lines on the record: 184
first: 2003-12-16
most recent: 2013-06-27
sittings or episodes: 10
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

“From this international forum, I congratulate the people of Iraq on the great achievements of the current and previous Governments in freeing our country from the burden of sanctions and embargoes, and on their efforts to achieve prosperity and security.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“Iraq will continue to cooperate with international organizations, the United Nations first and foremost, and to make such cooperation the foundation of our foreign policy and international relations. As a responsible and fully sovereign country, Iraq has regained to its natural place in the international community. It will play a positive and constructive role in promoting peace and stability and in achieving development for its people and the region. Just as Iraq was the cradle of civilization, it will be the cradle of cooperation, peace and fraternity for its people, its neighbours and the world.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“First and foremost, we must win the war on terrorism and defeat religious extremism, which we cannot do without national efforts and international cooperation, because terrorism has assumed a cross- border, global dimension and cannot be defeated without international cooperation. The second challenge is reconstructing Iraq in such a way that guarantees sustainable development for future generations. This, too, will be difficult to achieve without a peaceful environment and international assistance. We therefore look to the international community for its assistance in order to achieve our goals. In conclusion, we reiterate our gratitude and appreciation to the Security Council.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“In the recent past, we have already held successful provincial elections, and will convene the upcoming legislative elections by adhering to the same principles that we have upheld in previous elections, which were characterized by transparency and integrity and monitored by the international community. This will result in a Government elected by the people that leads a democratic, federal Iraq to progress, security and stability and contributes to the security of the region. Having discharged all the requirements of the international community, we still face two main challenges.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“Although these capabilities have been affected by the challenges to our internal political process, the war on terrorism, and regional political changes, all Iraqi parties involved in the political process are united in their resolve to confront these challenges through a national partnership that prioritizes national interests above all else and benefits the stability of the region. All Iraqi parties will work to secure social peace and to prevent Iraq from returning to sectarian fighting. We will resort to our Constitution to resolve our issues and to the polls to choose our representatives in the provincial councils and the Government.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“This date will also represent a significant development in the relationship between Iraq and Kuwait. All the negative aspects of the relationship between the two countries are now bygone, and we will focus on the present, on the future, and on what brotherly relations can achieve to consolidate peace, security and stability in the region. We shall focus on directing the efforts of these two rich countries to promote sustainable development that reflects positive results on both countries and the Arab region. The achieved cooperation between Iraq and Kuwait will serve as a model for resolving disputes between States by peaceful means. Iraq is a rich country, possessing wealth and human, material and natural resources that qualify to play an important, indeed critical role in ensuring the stability of the Middle East.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“As for the issue of compensation, Iraq is committed to paying the percentage decided by the Security Council based on the mechanism set out by the United Nations Commission on Compensation, as cited in resolution 1956 (2010) under the mechanism of the successor arrangements for the Development Fund for Iraq. We therefore believe that, through the adoption of resolution 2107 (2013), Iraq has fulfilled all its obligations under the resolutions of the Security Council under Chapter VII of the Charter. We believe that today's date, 27 June 2013, would be a milestone in the history of the relationship between Iraq and the international community, indicating that the resolutions imposed on Iraq under Chapter VII of the Charter now belong to the past.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“None of that cooperation could have been achieved without the serious cooperation of the Iraqi authorities. We shall continue to cooperate and to step up the pace of our cooperation in the near future, now that the issue has been transferred to coverage under the provisions of Chapter VI of the Charter. With respect to the maintenance of border markers, Iraq and Kuwait have created a mechanism through the establishment of a joint ministerial committee, and put in place the necessary measures indicated in resolution 833 (1993). In that regard, I refer to the letter of the Secretary-General to President of the Security Council dated of 12 June 2013 (S/2013/358), which refers to the end of the mission entrusted to him under resolution 833 (1993). Therefore, on this basis, Iraq has fulfilled all its obligations under that resolution.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“Furthermore, in resolution 1859 (2008), the Council decided to review the resolutions concerning the situation between Iraq and Kuwait and the situation in Iraq in order to identify together the mutual obligations falling to the international community, represented by the Council, and to Iraq. As a result, the Council adopted three important resolutions on 15 December 2010 - resolutions 1956 (2010), 1957 (2010) and 1958 (2010) - under which all of Iraq's obligations were ended, with the exception of three issues relating to the situation between Iraq and Kuwait: missing Kuwaitis and property, the maintenance of the border, and compensation. With regard to the first issue, significant progress has been achieved under bilateral cooperation between the two countries.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“The resolution strengthened the sovereignty of Iraq, lifted the weight of political constraints from its shoulders, paved the way for Iraq's return to the regional and international communities, and contributed to the stability of the region. Resolution 1762 (2007) representedthe international community's recognition of the correct approach taken by Iraq in fulfilling its obligations in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation. It is with great pride that Iraq currently chairs the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva, which confirms the validity of the path Iraq has taken, particularly after the ratification of the Additional Protocol to the Safeguards Agreement of the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“Those burdens would never have been imposed on Iraq had it not been for the aggressive policies of the former regime of waging wars against its neighbours and internally against its own people. Those resolutions have hindered Iraq's progress, prosperity and integration into the regional and international communities. Looking back at what we have achieved over the past few years towards Iraq regaining the international standing it enjoyed prior to resolution 661 (1990), we note the crucial resolution 1762 (2007), which ended the mandate of the United Nations Commission on Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“I also wish to express our gratitude and appreciation to the late Ambassador Vorontsov and Mr. Tarasov, the high-level coordinators, for their efforts to achieve progress in the humanitarian files of missing Kuwaiti persons and property. The Security Council meets today to adopt a resolution in the context of resolutions and measures taken by the Council to remove Iraq from the provisions of Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. When we carefully consider the past few years, we can see how far Iraq has come along the path of constructive cooperation with the objective of enabling Iraq to finally fulfil all its obligations under Security Council resolutions. Our foreign policy and international relations have been focused mainly on how to free the people and country of Iraq of the burdens of those resolutions.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“Mr. Zebari (Iraq) (spoke in Arabic): At the outset, allow me to thank you, Sir, for convening this important meeting and to express my appreciation to the countries that sponsored resolution 2107 (2013) and contributed to its enrichment, and to the friendly the members of the Security Council that voted on adopting it. I cannot but express my Government's gratitude to the Secretary-General for his report contained in document S/2013/357, which contains important proposals and evaluations, and to the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), led by Special Representative of the Secretary General Martin Kobler, for its efforts to fulfil the requirements of its mandate in Iraq, as well to the State and Government of Kuwait for their support and assistance to Iraq in emerging from under the provisions of Chapter VII.”
2013-06-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6990 (2013) · source
“It would also reflect positively on Iraq's Arab and international relations as Iraq contributes as a responsible and rightful member of the international community.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“In respect to internally displaced persons and refugees, the improvement in the security situation and the work of the Iraqi Government to provide an appropriate environment for their safe and dignified return have encouraged a significant number of displaced Iraqis to return voluntarily. We firmly believe that this is the solution, as Iraq needs the capacity of all its sons and daughters to contribute towards building the future of our country. In conclusion, Iraq is a country blessed with rich natural and human resources. However, we continue to need international cooperation and support to make progress towards a stable, peaceful and prosperous future. A democratic and sovereign Iraq that lives in peace and security with its people and its neighbours will be a positive factor in the stability and security of our region.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“On 4 April, the Government launched a five-year national development plan for the period 2010-2014, in order to develop the Iraqi economy, improve the quality of public services and create job opportunities. The federal fiscal budget for the 2011 was referred to the Council of Representatives on 1 December. The budget, whose ratification is pending, is designed to sustain the momentum of economic improvement in the country. We are aware that the issue of human rights in Iraq and the problem of internally displaced Iraqis and refugees in neighbouring and other countries are issues of concern to the international community. My Government continues to take proactive measures to seriously address those issues.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“In the economic sector, the situation has greatly improved through a series of economic, financial and investment regulations issued by the Government. Those regulations have contributed to the increase in per capita income and improved purchasing power and the level of social welfare. Through the licensing rounds this year on oil and gas fields, we have brought qualified international expertise to that sector, which will improve Iraq's ability to increase productivity and export capacity so as to enhance economic development. In that context, we look forward to the hydrocarbon law being ratified by the Council of Representatives as soon as possible. The Iraqi Government carried out an ambitious budget for 2010.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“The greatest challenge continues to be to build a State and State institutions on the basis of participation and inclusion, consolidating national reconciliation and deferring to an independent judiciary as the arbiter in implementing the principles of accountability and justice. Those principles were agreed upon and endorsed by all Iraqi political leaders and blocs in the Erbil meeting that took place on 8 November 2010. They are the foundation for the formation of the democratically elected Government and a federal, democratic and unified Iraq, with constitutional institutions and subject to the rule of law, where human rights are protected and all components of Iraqi society are fully respected.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“Despite remarkable progress in the fight for Iraq's peace and security, there are still attempts to revive sectarian, ethnic and religious strife, such as the recent atrocities committed against Iraqi Christians. There is shared empathy and a consensus between the Government and the Iraqi people to provide security and a safe environment for Iraqi Christians, who have played an important role in the national heritage of Iraq, in the national Iraqi movement and in the building of our country. International support is critical to encouraging Iraqi Christians to remain in their homeland as an integral part of Iraqi society.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“Despite those positive achievements, Iraq still has some way to go to resolve all outstanding issues with our brotherly neighbour Kuwait. There has been positive cooperation and exchange between our Governments to resolve and settle all pending issues between our countries stemming from Saddam Hussein's aggression and invasion of Kuwait in 1990. The remaining issues will be at the top of the new Government's agenda, among items demanding serious political action. My country is committed to fulfilling its remaining obligations under relevant Chapter VII resolutions pertaining to the situation between Iraq and Kuwait. Iraq still faces tremendous challenges. We continue to confront terrorism and criminal elements bent on destabilizing our country.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“The request for that measure arose from the delay in Government formation and political instability, not as a result of a lack of resolve and determination. The adoption of these important resolutions marks the beginning of the end of the sanctions regime and restrictions on Iraq's sovereignty, independence and recovery. Our people will rejoice at having turned a page on the aggressive, belligerent and defiant behaviour of the previous regime towards international law and legitimacy. Here, I wish to thank Vice President Biden in person for supporting Iraq's liberation from these international sanctions and restrictions, the permanent and non-permanent members of the Security Council, and the Secretary-General for standing by Iraq to get this far.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“The programme was marred by a web of mismanagement and misappropriation, and its termination lifts another burden on Iraq's recovery. In accordance with resolution 1905 (2009), my Government has achieved significant progress in 2010 towards developing arrangements to replace the Development Fund for Iraq and the International Advisory and Monitoring Board. This progress was reflected in the three reports presented to the Security Council in 2010. We have also made concrete progress in the settlement of sovereign debts and commercial claims, and concluded bilateral arrangements on other claims. My Government therefore appreciates the adoption by the Security Council of resolution 1956 (2010) extending the Development Fund for Iraq and the International Advisory and Monitoring Board for another six months.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“The lifting of the restrictions imposed by resolutions 687 (1991) and 707 (1991) relating to weapons of mass destruction and civilian nuclear activities is a sign that the new Iraq is significantly different from Saddam's Iraq at the time of the adoption of resolution 661 (1990). We also worked very hard this year towards completely closing down the oil-for-food programme. My Government, with all relevant ministries and departments, worked with the Security Council and the financial Controller of the United Nations to conclude all remaining contracts. Here again, my Government appreciates the Council's recognition of the success we have achieved in closing out the remaining contracts and terminating the residual activities of the oil-for- food programme.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“In this regard, I refer to my numerous letters to the President of the Security Council and the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency this year, in particular the most recent letter to the President of the Security Council dated 7 December 2010. My Government welcomes and deeply appreciates the Council's collective decision and support in recognizing Iraq's progress in supporting the international non-proliferation regime and complying with disarmament treaties and other relevant international instruments. My country is committed to taking additional steps in this regard.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“Our key focus has been to unburden Iraq from the heavy legacy of non-compliance with international law, break its isolation and regain its rightful place among the community of nations. Pursuant to our Constitution and proceeding from our commitment to international resolutions, and also in the context of the Secretary-General's report contained in document S/2009/385 on the review of Security Council resolutions imposed under Chapter VII, we have accomplished major and significant progress towards meeting our obligations to the standards of disarmament and non-proliferation in record time.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“To this end, we in Iraq have embraced the important challenge of hosting the upcoming Arab Summit in Baghdad in March 2011, over which Iraq will preside. Ensuring its success will be a clear signal of our progress and that Iraq has been embraced by its fellow Arab countries. Iraq has also demonstrated through its foreign policy that it remains committed to the basic principles of our constitution: non-interference in the internal affairs of other States, seeking to resolve conflicts through peaceful means, establishing relations on the basis of common interests and reciprocity, and respecting our international obligations. As regards our relations with the Security Council, Iraq has taken great strides towards meeting our international commitments.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“The new Government will be a power- sharing, representative and inclusive Government that reflects the will of the Iraqi people, as displayed by the parliamentary elections of 7 March. Having myself participated in these discussions, I can report to the Council that the Government will be formed very soon. In the last few months of the political stalemate, we witnessed regional activities that impacted the process of Government formation. While we Iraqis welcome any positive contribution of assistance, the Iraqi people totally reject interference in their internal affairs by others. As a free, democratic and sovereign nation, we continue to work to strengthen relations with our regional neighbours and our brotherly Arab countries.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“Members of the Security Council are aware that a long period of time elapsed between the parliamentary elections on 7 March and the meeting of the Council of Representatives on 11 November. That parliamentary meeting came after an Iraqi initiative led by the President of the Kurdistan region, who brought together all political leaders to meet in Erbil and later in Baghdad to reach a political settlement in order to form the new Government of national unity and partnership. The initiative had immense regional and international support. It led to the resumption of the meeting of the Council of Representatives to elect its President, the Speaker of the Parliament, and to ask Mr. Nuri al-Maliki to form a new Government within the constitutional time frame. Political exchanges and discussions on the new Government will be completed imminently.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“I thank you, Sir, for convening this important and historic meeting. It is a great honour to be invited here today to brief the Council on the current situation and ongoing developments in Iraq. This timely meeting is a demonstration of the international community's broad support for Iraq. At the forefront are the efforts of the Security Council, particularly in the areas of reconstruction and support for the political and constitutional processes. In this context, allow me to express my appreciation for the efforts of the Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon; his Special Representative, Mr. Ad Melkert, the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) and the Iraq Office of the Secretariat for their contributions within the mandate of UNAMI and pursuant to relevant Security Council resolutions.”
2010-12-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6450 (2010) · source
“As stability improves, Iraq is embracing a new phase of economic development and cooperation and revitalized reconstruction and energy sector development and is improving the livelihoods and prosperity of the Iraqi people. It has taken time and sacrifices, but we are stepping forward, with a real hope for the future, towards a peaceful, democratic, united and flourishing Iraq that plays a pivotal and positive role in regional stability. The support of the international community for our success is vital. In turn, our success will prove critical to promoting peace and stability in the region and the world.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“Finally, my Government requests a review of all Security Council resolutions pertaining to Iraq to be undertaken jointly by the Secretary-General and Iraq and reported to the Security Council as the final arbiter to take stock of our remaining obligations and to assess the relevance and the validity of all such resolutions to Iraq's current situation. We are fully committed to abiding by our obligations under Security Council resolutions and look forward to recognition by the United Nations of the positive development in our country so that Iraq can resume its legal and international status that prevailed before the adoption of resolution 661 (1990) and the burdens of Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“Iraq is no longer a rogue State flouting international law and posing a threat to international peace and regional security. Nor is it an instrument of oppression against its own people. Now we have our own democratic institutions, a constitutional Government accountable to and a parliament representative of the Iraqi people. Iraq seeks peaceful coexistence with its neighbours, stands as a steadfast partner in the fight against global terrorism, continues to pursue full reintegration into regional and global economies and seeks reinstatement as an equal, peaceful and responsible member of the international community that upholds and respects the universal principles of human rights and the rule of law.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“There has been a marked improvement in the situation in Iraq. We are at a crucial transitional stage of stabilization, and our ongoing and steady progress must not be undermined. The process of qualifying and settling legitimate claims will take time. Therefore, to continue this critical progress, Iraq needs protection for its assets. We request the support of the international community through the continuation of current protection and arrangements for Iraq's resources and the proceeds therefrom until the situation in Iraq normalizes and the Government is able to implement the necessary measures it is committed to taking to settle outstanding debts and claims. The situation in Iraq today is fundamentally different from the situation prevailing at the time of the adoption of resolution 661 (1990).”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“Indeed, Iraq has been awarded the last reduction of its Paris Club debt, amounting to 20 per cent of its debt, after successfully completing its programme with the International Monetary Fund. My Government is fully committed to the resolution of all legitimate claims and to complying with its obligation under international law. We have worked diligently to fulfil our commitments with regard to settling this debt to countries and to paying compensation. In particular, Iraq is fully committed to implementing all binding resolutions concerning Kuwait with respect to the border, sovereignty and settlements for the aggression of the former regime. In further commitment to our international obligation, the Iraqi cabinet has waived 100 per cent of the debt owed by more than 12 developing countries in Africa and Asia.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“Iraq therefore requests the extension until next year of the arrangements established in paragraph 20 of resolution 1483 (2003) for depositing the proceeds from export sales of petroleum, petroleum products and natural gas into the Development Fund for Iraq and of the arrangements of paragraph 12 of resolution 1483 (2003) and resolution 1546 (2004) for the monitoring of the Fund by the International Advisory and Monitoring Board. Iraq supports the open and transparent process of review of these arrangements. Iraq has inherited immense debt and international legal claims from the wars and aggressions of the Saddam Hussein regime. Since 2003 we have managed our resources responsibly, as acknowledged by the international community and its international financial institutions.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“My Government has pledged $25 million towards planning for the proposed United Nations facility in Baghdad and an equal contribution upon commencement of the work. We remain actively committed to assisting the United Nations in any way necessary for it to continue and expand its mission in Iraq in accordance with Security Council resolutions 1770 (2007) and 1830 (2008). As the Iraqi Government pushes forward with extensive national reconstruction and economic development, we need assurances that Iraq's resources and financial assets are available for the country's recovery programmes. Without such assurances, the functioning of the Iraqi Government and the current stability could be seriously endangered.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“Last year also witnessed the opening of a number of Arab diplomatic missions in Baghdad, including that of Kuwait, as a further sign of Iraq's integration into its regional environment. On behalf of my Government, I would like to extend our appreciation to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Staffan de Mistura, and to his colleagues at the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) for the crucial work they are undertaking to support my Government and the people of Iraq. I would like to highlight and commend UNAMI for several things: its role in assisting in election preparations and contributing to the successful adoption of the elections law, its invaluable work on the reintegration of Iraqi refugees and the internally displaced and its engagement in seeking resolution on Iraq's disputed internal boundaries.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“Although appalling terror attacks fail to ignite the same spirals of sectarian conflict we experienced in recent years, any premature military withdrawals would leave behind a vacuum of vulnerability that would be exploited to destabilize Iraq and threaten the entire region. Iraq urges gradual, measured and responsible security transitions. As we move forward, Iraq continues to need the active support and consistent commitment of the international community, the United Nations and the States and organizations involved in key forums, including the International Compact with Iraq and neighbouring countries' mechanisms. Iraq's relations with its neighbours have improved, and there are a number of bilateral agreements to further improve relations with all neighbouring countries.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“It is with cautious confidence that we enter into a new phase of security arrangements beyond United Nations-mandated support. And the Government of Iraq reminds the international community that the struggle for peace is still far from over. We recognize that a significant level of security and military support continues to be necessary and that it will take time for our security forces to reach full capacity. Recently, we have succeeded in making gains in security, even as coalition troops have withdrawn to pre-surge levels and continue to depart the theatre as security conditions on the ground permit. But our hard-won achievements need to be pressed on and made durable. The threats to our fledgling democracy persist.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“Iraq wishes to extend its deepest thanks and appreciation to all those countries which contributed to the coalition and which have had the vision, the resolve and the brave leadership to stand alongside the Iraqi people in our fight for our shared values of democracy and freedom. On behalf of the Government and people of Iraq, I wish to convey a very important message of thanks to the men and women of the multinational forces who have fought courageously with us on the front line. Iraq owes them a debt of gratitude, and we share our condolences with them for the sacrifices that this historic struggle has required. Our joint losses have not been in vain, nor will they ever be forgotten. Their countries may be justifiably proud of their accomplishments.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“Noting the significant progress achieved and the conclusion of the security accord with the United States, Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki's letter dated 7 December 2007 was therefore the final request to extend the multinational force mandate, which will thus expire at the end of this year. The termination marks a turning point for Iraq and the end of an important era for the United Nations and all those countries that have contributed to the multinational force. The multinational force in Iraq has contributed vital support to the process of building security and stability in Iraq and to our transition towards a sovereign, federal and united democracy.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“The agreements were approved by the Iraqi Cabinet and the Council of Representatives on 27 November and endorsed by the Presidency Council on 4 December. We are already negotiating further agreements with other international coalition partners. Security Council resolution 1546 (2004) and subsequent annual resolutions extending the multinational force mandate, in addition to the Iraqi Government's request to retain the multinational force presence, have been based on the premise that any continued multinational force presence would remain until Iraq can assume full responsibility and be self- sufficient in maintaining security for the country and the people of Iraq. At present, according to the 3 agreements with the United States, 2011 would be a realistic date for the withdrawal of all United Sates forces from our country.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“There are two key aspects to this important bilateral security agreement. The first is agreement on the withdrawal of United States forces from Iraq and the organization of their activities during their temporary presence in Iraq, detailing the procedures and legal protections that govern the presence of United States troops in Iraq. The second is the higher- level strategic framework agreement for a relationship of friendship and cooperation between the Republic of Iraq and the United States of America, which covers the long-term principles guiding our overall political, economic and security relationship. It further normalizes the relationship between Iraq and the United States with strong economic, diplomatic and cultural ties.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“However, much work still needs to be done, first and foremost in air force and navy training and border control to extend Iraqi authority over its borders, waterways and airspace, in addition to ongoing strengthening of democratic institutions, including commitment to human rights, the supremacy of the rule of law and the total rejection of sectarianism. In pursuit of Iraq's strategic vision for the secure and stable future of our country, and reflecting security conditions on the ground, Iraq and the United States have negotiated a new security arrangement to direct the future bilateral partnership between our two equal and sovereign nations, which share common goals and objectives: to protect and promote the interests of our two nations and to reinforce Iraqi sovereignty and independence.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“13 out of 18 provinces are now under Iraqi Government control, including areas of former insurgent and terrorist strongholds. Iraqi forces are increasingly planning, implementing and leading security and peacekeeping operations independently of the Multinational Force in Iraq. The professionalism of our national army and police has also won them the 08-66593 trust of the Iraqi population, which has helped lead to the arrests of key operatives in terror and militia networks and significant confiscation of weapons caches.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“Iraq has stepped back from the brink of civil war. Terrorists and outlaw groups have no place to hide in Iraq. Iraqi civilians have embraced initiatives to protect their communities and livelihoods; they have fundamentally disrupted the networks of Al-Qaida and forcefully rejected extremist attempts to incite sectarian conflict, lawlessness and hatred. The central strategy of my Government and the coalition has been to bolster the capacity of Iraqi security forces with a view to transferring full responsibility for Iraq's security and defence to Iraqi security forces. Today, the increased training, capabilities, size and confidence of Iraqi security forces has led to a dramatic improvement in the security situation.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“It is the responsibility and priority of the Iraqi Government to guarantee security and stability for all Iraqis. We are at present effectively maintaining the steadiest levels of stability in four years. Attacks and civilian and military deaths have all decreased by over 80 per cent since last year. This has been achieved by the undoubted success of the surge strategy, bolstered by the commendable performance of Iraqi security forces and backed up with economic and political measures at local and provincial governance levels. Contributing factors also include the Awakening movement, as former insurgents turn against terrorist elements, and widespread public support for the Government's demobilization of unlawful militias and for our imposition of the rule of law on those who challenge the sole legitimate authority of the State.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“We are currently preparing to hold open and fair provincial and national elections this coming year, marking a major step toward political stabilization and the completion of one full constitutional, democratic electoral cycle, 08-66593 However, we still face many challenges, including undertaking constitutional review; finding sustainable solutions to power and resource sharing, including adopting hydrocarbons legislation; achieving the resolution of disputed territories; building government capacity on service provision and facilitating the safe, dignified and sustainable return of over two million refugees and internally displaced persons. Our political and democratic progress is, to some extent, a product of, and a contributing factor towards, trends in improving security that have emerged over the previous 12 months.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“Furthermore, as we further emerge as a peaceful and responsible democracy, my Government believes Iraq's status in the international community is due for review. I am pleased to report that this year we have achieved remarkable progress and turned a vital corner towards the stabilization and recovery of my country. The constitutionally elected national unity Government has pushed ahead with its program of national reconciliation, and the Council of Representatives has successfully passed key laws on justice and accountability, provincial elections, amnesty and the national budget through a process of compromise and political accommodation.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source
“Since the liberation of the Iraqi people in 2003, Iraq has charted a path towards stability and democracy with the support of the international community under Security Council resolutions 1483 (2003), 1511 (2003), 1546 (2004), 1637 (2005), 1723 (2006) and 1790 (2007). My Government thanks the member States of the Security Council for their continued support and welcomes the opportunity to provide an update on the current situation in Iraq and the way forward. The timing is particularly significant as resolution 1790 (2007), due to expire on 31 December 2008, marks the termination of the mandate of the Multinational Force in Iraq, and prompts a review of the arrangements to manage Iraq's financial resources in accordance with our international obligations.”
2008-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6059 (2008) · source