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

“Iraq seeks assistance from its neighbours and the international community to find solutions and support us in overcoming the financial obligations that were bestowed upon us, so that we can all benefit from mutually beneficial economic ties that will contribute towards the prosperity and stability of Iraq and the region. Finally, there is a renewed sense of optimism for my country. We have proved we can be successful in Iraq, and my Government is confident of recovery. This is once again an important year for the people of Iraq, and we call upon the family of nations to stand with us in solidarity and in hope.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“My Government wishes to extend its appreciation for the work of United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq, as set forth in resolution 1770 (2007), and of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Staffan de Mistura, in recognition of the invaluable support they are providing to help Iraq address the challenges it faces today. We also note, and encourage, the trend to increase the presence of the United Nations and its specialized agencies in Iraq. As Iraq continues to pursue its strong drive towards full normalized integration into the regional and international communities and the globalized economy, we are burdened by the heavy legacy of debt incurred by the previous regime.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“The Government of Iraq also welcomes the continuation of the current arrangements regarding the Development Fund for Iraq (DFI) and its International Advisory and Monitoring Board (IAMB) as extended in resolution 1790 (2007). My Government reaffirms the important roles of the DFI and the IAMB in ensuring the responsible management of Iraq's resources to the optimal benefit of the Iraqi people. It also acknowledges the contribution of those mechanisms towards strengthening Iraq's partnership with the international community through transparency and accountability in resource distribution. We further request a reconsideration of Iraq's compensatory obligations, which have increased considerably in magnitude over the last year and which continue to put pressure on the Iraqi budget and reconstruction and development programmes.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“I bring it to the attention of the Security Council that Iraq is currently negotiating bilateral strategic agreements with the United States to provide the framework for security arrangements that will address Iraq's security needs covered at present by the Multinational Force's mandate. The strategic framework agreement and the status-of-forces agreement, together as one single package, should reflect the progress achieved in the development of the Iraqi security forces. The transition from multilateral to bilateral security arrangements will entail transparent processes, subject to the approval of the elected Council of Representatives and preserving the sovereignty and national interests of Iraq and the Iraqi people.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“Iraq continues to need the assistance of the Multinational Force, whose mandate is now due for review, pursuant to Security Council resolution 1790 (2007) and in accordance with Iraq's request in a letter from Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki to the Council, dated 7 December 2007 and annexed to that resolution. The Government of Iraq welcomes the continued support of the Multinational Force, consistent with its mandate as set forth in resolution 1546 (2004), including the tasks and arrangements specified in the letters annexed thereto, as extended by resolutions 1637 (2005), 1723 (2006) and 1790 (2007), recognizing that the mandate may be terminated upon request of the Government of Iraq.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“Even though the Iraqi security forces are now better trained, better equipped and greater in number, they still fall short of being able to independently assume full responsibility for the maintenance of security throughout the Iraqi territory and thus to allow the Multinational Force to complete its mandate. In particular, the support of the Multinational Force may prove essential to support the forthcoming provincial elections in October. The Government of Iraq continues to be grateful to Multinational Force for its vital contribution towards establishing security and stability in Iraq and towards developing the self-sufficiency of Iraqi forces.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“It has led to concrete mechanisms through which Iraq and its neighbours can address issues of common interest and resolve issues through the Working Groups on Energy, Border Security and Refugees. Efforts continue to resolve issues such as war repatriation, debt relief and water. We are pleased to note the decisions of the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Jordan and other countries to appoint ambassadors to Baghdad, and we urge our other neighbours and other Arab countries to follow this example. Security continues to be the leading concern and the foremost responsibility of the Iraqi Government, as well as the principal prerequisite for progress in the fields of reconstruction and social and economic development.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“Through a series of Government initiatives, Iraq will work with its international development partners on reconstruction to increasingly leverage Iraq's own resources so that it may realize its full potential through mutually beneficial cooperative partnerships in the region and beyond, reducing reliance on financial donors. Regionally, the relationships between Iraq and its neighbours continue to develop through direct dialogue and diplomacy. The series of neighbouring countries meetings, expanded to include the permanent members of the Security Council, the world's leading economies and other key countries and organizations, is now an ongoing Iraqi-led process recognized and supported by the United Nations.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“Since 2003, unemployment has dropped over 10 per cent, while annual per capita income has increased considerably, from $465 to $2,100. The International Monetary Fund predicts that prospects will continue to improve in the coming years and described Iraq's achievements under the standby agreement as impressive and remarkable in the given context. Iraq is a wealthy country, and although our resources are clearly underutilized, we have become the principal funder of all our reconstruction efforts. We recently concluded the first annual Review Conference of the International Compact with Iraq in Stockholm, which has provided a key framework for international cooperation in all spheres of political governance and socio-economic recovery.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“We look with confidence towards our next major milestone: the provincial elections scheduled for October, which will be contested in an open, inclusive and dynamic political environment and which will mark the completion of one full electoral cycle. With respect to the economy, in 2007 Iraq considerably improved its budget execution, spending nearly triple what it spent in 2006, despite difficult conditions. This result was praised at the recent ministerial Conference of the International Compact with Iraq held in Stockholm. Significantly, the volume of oil output is at its highest level since 2004. We have also managed, through sound monetary policy, to reduce annual core inflation from 36 per cent at the end of 2006 to the present 16 per cent, to the great benefit of all Iraqis.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“Building trust to reach a consensus on a common national agenda takes time and space, but there is a renewed political will to bring negotiations to a closure. We now have a unique opportunity to address difficult, divisive issues and strengthen our national unity through the constitutional review process, culminating in reaching agreements on constitutional amendments on federalism, resource sharing and other issues. By expanding political dialogue and further integrating those groups that renounce violence in favour of peaceful political participation, we are taking further steps towards sustainable peace and stability.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“Our Council of Representatives is hard at work to follow up with other pending laws, including the electoral and hydrocarbon laws that will be crucial to further promoting national reconciliation through expanding political inclusiveness and through reaching consensus on the equitable sharing of Iraq's resources. Iraq has also ratified the United Nations Conventions against corruption and against torture, demonstrating our commitment to transparent, accountable governance and to upholding human rights. Clearly, there have been delays in formulating and passing certain key legislation. 1 would remind the Security Council that Iraq is still recovering from decades of war, sanctions and dictatorship, which tore the very fabric of our society.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“As a result of our security gains and the perseverance of political and community leaders in striving for national dialogue and reconciliation, Iraqis have pulled together to reverse a potentially devastating descent into sectarian war, and they have forcefully rejected the extremist agendas that incite conflict, hatred and civil strife in our country. Significant political progress and critical strides made on our ambitious legislative agenda have also contributed to the consolidation of security and reconciliation. We have successfully passed key legislation, namely the Justice and Accountability Law, the General Amnesty Law, the regional powers law and, in 2008, the largest budget in our history, almost 40 per cent of which is allocated to public infrastructure and services.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“To consolidate these security gains, the ongoing challenge for my Government is the equitable provision of essential public services in order to raise the standard of living for the Iraqi people. Electricity, water, sanitation, health care and fuel are key priorities. At the same time, we are dealing with the momentous humanitarian challenges caused by the internal and external displacement of Iraqi people, in particular securing for them a safe, dignified and sustainable return home with the support of basic services in order to reintegrate them into their communities.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“In April of this year, the President, the Prime Minister and heads of political parliamentary blocs issued a 15-point statement calling on all parties and political blocs to dissolve and disarm their militias, a move much praised by the Iraqi public. Let me note here the Government's successful imposition of the rule of law in Basra, a city where the authority of the State had been challenged by unlawful militias, criminals and armed groups. The willingness of the Government to confront head-on illegal elements, not only in Basra but in Sadr City, Mosul - and indeed, anywhere in Iraq - is evidence of our greater confidence and ability to boost security. It also demonstrates the progress of the Iraqi security forces and their capacity, with Multinational Force support, to undertake increasingly difficult missions.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“Their efforts have won them the trust and cooperation of the Iraqi people and, with the support of the multinational forces, they have turned the corner in the fight against the insurgency and terrorism in Iraq. At the same time, we continue to monitor the vigilance of military and security force leaders in preventing civilian casualties and maintaining respect for international humanitarian law during their operations. Over the same period, the Government of Iraq has taken concrete action in the form of security, political and economic measures to strengthen national reconciliation and impose the rule of law.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“In particular, during the last six months, we have seen a continuation and consolidation of the significant trends that began last year with Operation Rule of Law and the positive impact of the surge strategy in support of the Iraqi security forces. The Iraqi security forces continue to be strengthened in capacity, skill and confidence, thanks to clear and positive improvements in training and professionalism, enabling it to implement law and order in an impartial, non-sectarian manner. The forces have increased in size - to nearly 600,000 strong - and they improved their equipment. They now have primary responsibility for over half of Iraq's 18 provinces.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“1 am pleased to report to the Security Council that Iraq is experiencing the lowest levels of overall violence and the smallest number of terrorist attacks since March 2004, more than four years ago. Our country has stepped back from the brink of civil war, and the Iraqi people, from all communities, have encouraged a number of initiatives to protect our civilians and our livelihoods. We have witnessed, in the Awakening movement, former insurgents turning their arms towards the fighting of foreign terrorists. With the help of local communities, we have rooted Al-Qaida out from its neighbourhoods and strongholds. We have seen widespread support for the Government's programme to demobilize unlawful militias that operate against the rule of law.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“In accordance with resolution 1790 (2007), the mandate of the Multinational Force in Iraq is now due for review. Iraq extends its thanks to the Security Council for the opportunity to address its member States on the current situation in Iraq as part of the review process. We recently passed the five-year milestone in Iraq's democratic transition. Although my country continues to endure profound challenges, we have made commendable and significant accomplishments in the security, political and economic fields. My Government acknowledges, however, that our tangible and visible gains are vulnerable and fragile. Our priority is to consolidate and capitalize on what has been achieved.”
2008-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5910 (2008) · source
“I would be remiss if I did not take this opportunity to thank His Excellency Mr. Ashraf Qazi for his years of dedicated service to Iraq and to the United Nations. During his tenure in Baghdad, he earned the respect of Iraq's political class and the gratitude of the people of Iraq. He will be missed, but we wish him all the best in his future endeavours. Let me conclude by formally noting my Government's request for the continuation of the arrangements relating to the Development Fund for Iraq and the International Advisory and Monitoring Board for Iraq, for reasons contained in my letter to the President of the Security Council dated 8 June 2007.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“UNAMI rules going forward must evolve better to fit current and future needs, as exemplified by the implementation of the International Compact. We are mindful, however, that circumstances are sufficiently changed, and the relationship between UNAMI and the Government of Iraq must change to reflect that reality. Our vision of UNAMI is one in which its rule must be responsive to Iraq's needs as expressed by the Government of Iraq. We also expect UNAMI to expand its role to include a greater presence and to facilitate expanding the work of United Nations agencies, such as the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the United Nations Development Programme, the World Health Organization, the Food and Agricultural Organization and other such agencies.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“The launch was attended by over 60 countries and international organizations, and many were represented at the ministerial level. The Compact is a framework developed to help the Iraqi Government achieve its national vision of a unified, democratic, federal, peaceful and prosperous Iraq through a programme of mutual commitments - time-bound commitments by the Iraqi Government to achieve key milestones in security and political and governmental reform and economic reconstruction, and commitments by the international community to provide necessary assistance in the medium term. In respect to the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI), we note that its mandate was set by resolution 1546 (2004) and focused on discrete activities centred around Iraq's political process. This process has been essentially completed.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“That meeting prepared the ground for the expanded international ministerial conference of Iraq's neighbouring countries, plus Egypt and Bahrain, as well as the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and of the Group of Eight, on 4 May in Sharm el-Sheikh. At that meeting ministers enacted the concrete recommendation made by their experts earlier in Baghdad. As a consequence, three technical committees have been set up dealing with problems besetting Iraq and affecting our neighbours, namely, security, temporarily displaced persons and energy supplies. Meetings of these technical committees are being prepared, and we have asked the United Nations to assist in their work. Also, on 3 May, the International Compact with Iraq was launched in the Egyptian city of Sharm el-Sheikh.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“I would also like to report on our Government's activities in the regional and international arenas, activities which have been quite successful. Conscious of the important role our neighbours can play in helping us stabilize our country, we have worked proactively to bring their representatives together with other important players in the region. Thus, on 10 March, we held in Baghdad an expanded meeting of senior experts representing our neighbours, the permanent members of the Security Council and key international and regional organizations, including, of course, the United Nations.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“Many have criticized us for taking time to complete what would be, even in a developed democracy operating under ideal circumstances, an ambitious legislative agenda. This process has taken time for two reasons. First, we are convinced that setting these laws on a firm foundation is more important than adhering to some artificial deadline. Secondly, we are not operating exclusively on the principle of majority rule. We do not wish to establish these fundamental and long-serving State institutions on the principle of "50 per cent plus one". We are trying to reach as comprehensive a national consensus as possible so that all groups willing to participate in the political process will feel invested in these institutions.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“Past practices, commencing in 2003, failed to differentiate between criminals and non-criminals, and failed to distinguish between those who were ideological members of the party versus those who had joined it simply to be able to support their families - a common practice in autocratic and authoritarian regimes. Those failures will be remedied through legislation. In addition, and as part of national dialogue and reconciliation, we are now in the process of reviewing and revising the constitution, with an eye to completing that process this month. Simultaneously, we are working on completing a hydrocarbon law and a law on the distribution of Iraq's assets in a way that fairly insures development throughout the country.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“Tribal chiefs and ordinary citizens in Anbar and Diyala provinces - the most restive of Iraq's provinces and, for too long, a haven for Al-Qaida terrorists - have shown signs of taking arms and standing up against those terrorists. These citizens are now cooperating closely with the Iraqi forces and the multinational forces. While we are determined to defeat the forces of those whose only agenda is to destroy the political process in Iraq, my Government is mindful that strategies in addition to the military option must be employed to restore peace and stability. National reconciliation is also a top priority with which we are contending. As a cornerstone of this reconciliation process, we are working on a draft law to reverse overly aggressive de-Baathification.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“The worrisome occurrence of militias attempting to ethnically cleanse neighbourhoods within the capital is beginning to be reversed. Apart from the statistics, we see evidence of normalization - businesses reopening, increased traffic and more everyday signs of life on the streets. While it is perhaps too early to declare success, those are not small developments. It is of Vital importance that those operations continue as we look forward to the day when normalcy can be restored to the capital, home to one-quarter of Iraq's population. Of course, it is essential that we ensure that those who have so terrorized Baghdad's population should not find refuge in the surrounding areas. In this respect, too, there is progress to report.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“We look forward to the day when Iraqi forces are able to assume full responsibility for the maintenance of security and stability in Iraq, thus allowing the Multinational Force to complete its mandate and end its presence in the country. Until that day, Iraq continues to need the support of the Multinational Force to assist it in providing a secure environment for the Iraqi people. Iraq's armed forces, in conjunction with the Multinational Force, are making encouraging progress in their drive to restore law and order to the capital. The number of sectarian-motivated murders - a phenomenon new to Iraq - has greatly reduced since last winter, before operations began. Preliminary reports indicate that some of those who had been internally displaced from their homes in Baghdad are beginning slowly to return.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“The Government of Iraq is the sole authority to control Iraqi streets, and we are strengthening our stance against all illegal militias and corruption within our national security, army and police. Iraqi security forces continue to assume greater responsibility for providing security to the people, as their size, experience and capacity increase. In September of last year, the Iraqi Government assumed operational command and control of ground, naval and air force commands. Today, security responsibility for seven governorates has been transferred to the Iraqi authorities, and my Government aspires to increase the number of provinces and governorates under its control with a View towards the day when it has full authority over all 18 governorates.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“Carrying out this task also has a heavy price, for both Iraqi and multinational forces. Secondly, the Multinational Force is undertaking the training of the Iraqi Armed Forces. Let me say here that the Iraqi people are deeply grateful for their continued efforts and their sacrifice. The Iraqi Government is responsible for security and for increasing the capacity and capabilities of security forces, including recruitment, training and equipment, as outlined in the letter from Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki to the Security Council dated 11 November 2006 (S/2006/888, annex). We recognize the need to accelerate the build-up of an Iraqi force that is self-sustaining, holds public confidence and is loyal to an Iraqi national agenda.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“It takes time for an esprit de corps to develop, and it takes time for trust and confidence to be built, up and down the ranks. We are building these institutions, doing so under far less than ideal circumstances. Thus, the role of the Multinational Force continues to be vitally important, in at least two ways. First, the Multinational Force provides additional strength of arms whenever the need exceeds the capacity of Iraq's armed and security forces. An example of this phenomenon can now be seen in Operation Fardh al-Qanun, or Baghdad security plan, which aims to re-establish the rule of law in Baghdad and to stabilize the rest of the country. This is a difficult and dangerous task, made all the more difficult by the ruthlessness of an enemy unbound by any moral or ethical restrictions.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“While the scale of their atrocities is appalling and captures media attention, the ability of these terrorists to influence actual events on the ground is limited. For instance, they continue to target police and army recruits, as is often reported in the media; yet, the numbers of recruits continue to rise through a growing stream of volunteers. Thus, the terrorists have failed to achieve their strategic goal of preventing large numbers of volunteers in the rebuilding of the country. We have succeeded in recruiting nearly 350,000 men into the armed and security services in Iraq. We are making progress in training and equipping those troops, looking forward to the day when they will be able to secure the peace of the nation without the presence of foreign troops. Yet, this process takes time.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“While we are eagerly strengthening our nascent democracy and rebuilding our State institutions, the Iraqi people continue to be targeted by a well funded and organized campaign to destroy democracy in our part of the world. As Iraqis have increasingly demonstrated their determination to go forward in rebuilding their country, this campaign has become increasingly Vicious. Aside from today's heinous attack, in recent weeks, for example, terrorists have destroyed bridges, seeking to sever the physical ties that link Iraqis together. Although many of the perpetrators of violence are indiscriminate in terms of their victims, their continued wilful targeting of political, civil, educational, economic and, as we saw today, religious institutions is no less than an attack on the modern and historic culture of Iraq.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“Notwithstanding this senseless violence, my Government has made tremendous strides towards the day when security will be provided by a self-sufficient Iraqi national security force. That is our ultimate objective, and it is what we are actively engaged in achieving. While Iraqis will always be grateful for their liberation from an absolute despot, no Iraqi Government official - indeed, no Iraqi citizen - wants the presence of foreign troops on Iraqi soil one day longer than is vitally necessary. But today, and for the foreseeable future at least, the presence of MNF-I troops is vitally necessary, not only for Iraq but also to safeguard regional security and stability. The situation in our country is difficult and challenging at the moment.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“There is no more definitive example of this threat than today's bombings, which destroyed the remnant of the holy Al-Askaria shrine in Samarra. This shrine, sacred to both Shia and Sunni and revered by all Iraqis regardless of religion, was of no military value whatsoever. Its destruction in today's attack - the second on that shrine in 16 months - was meant symbolically as a message from the terrorists that they are seeking to destroy the fabric of Iraqi society - to destroy inter-religious harmony as well as to destroy the tradition of tolerance and fraternity within each of Iraq's various religious traditions. We Iraqis, standing united as a Government and as a people, utterly reject these obvious attempts to divide us in the hope of sowing the seeds of sectarian and civil war.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“The formation of the National Unity Government that is broadly representative of, and governs by the consent of, Iraq's diverse society, marked the completion of the political process as set forth in Security Council resolution 1546 (2004) and consolidated Iraq's commitment to the process of democratization. The past 12 months have been a critical test of the courage and commitment of the Government and the people of Iraq as we broker a difficult, and often painful, transition towards a stable and peaceful democracy. Despite remarkable progress, a complex political, security and economic environment continues to present formidable challenges to the elected leaders tasked with the normalization of our country.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“In accordance with Security Council resolution 1723 (2006), the mandate for the Multinational Force in Iraq (MNF-I) is due for review. On behalf of the Government of Iraq, I would like to present an update to the Security Council on the present situation and ongoing developments in our country. In May this year, Iraq observed the first anniversary of the formation of the constitutionally elected Government that is accountable to the 275 men and women of the Council of Representatives, the first democratically elected legislative body in Iraq's history.”
2007-06-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5693 (2007) · source
“My Government recognizes that we have a critical window of opportunity to break with the past. The future of the country is up to us, and we are seizing the initiative. We have paid dearly - along with the sacrifices of the sons and daughters of our allies - and we will not let our losses be in vain. The more help we receive now, the sooner we can succeed in our common cause. 10”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source
“We would also like to take this opportunity to point out that the time is now ripe for the Security Council to review the United Nations Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission mandate with a view to terminating it, since the circumstances that led to its creation no longer exist. The Government of Iraq thanks the United Nations for its expressed support as we begin our challenging mandate. We ask that the international community take this opportunity to revitalize its assistance and support to Iraq and fulfil donor pledges already made at Madrid, Amman and Tokyo so as to help my Government to accomplish its responsibilities to our people. This is the beginning of a new chapter in Iraq's transformation from dictatorship to a sovereign, peaceful and prosperous federal democracy, as voted for by the Iraqi people.”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source
“We continue to pursue regional cooperation on economic exchanges, political dialogue and border security in order to promote peaceful coexistence with our neighbours. Furthermore, we expect our neighbours to demonstrate genuine support for the new Government and goodwill in securing borders and preventing arms, foreign elements and terrorists from crossing into Iraq to undermine the stability of the new Government. We believe that the formation of an international contact group, involving Iraq's neighbours, the five permanent members of the Council, the United Nations and the Arab League, would be a fair and useful means to build international support for regional security and to enhance reconstruction plans for the country.”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source
“The Government of Iraq is committed to meeting violations with justice and reaffirms its 06-3890] commitment to establishing an independent human rights commission in Iraq. We continue to need the United Nations to engage in Iraq to its maximum capacity. We call upon Member States to step up the provision of funds and operational support, and my Government pledges to provide any assistance necessary to enhance the United Nations mission. As security in Iraq improves, we request that the United Nations reinforce its staff and increase its role throughout the country. We must not underestimate the positive impact of a sovereign, united and stable Iraq at the strategic and geographical heart of the Middle East. We have demonstrated that our progress does not contradict the interests of our neighbours.”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source
“We also note the support of UNAMI in the constitutional process, humanitarian assistance, donor coordination and electoral assistance. We ask that the United Nations continue to offer its unique expertise for the forthcoming provincial elections throughout Iraq. We commend the work of the Special Representative, Ambassador Ashraf Qazi, and welcome UNAMI's proposal for the Baghdad peace initiative to help bridge communal differences. We also note the Secretary-General's concerns regarding human rights in his quarterly report to the Security Council. While the primary perpetrators of human rights abuses in Iraq are the insurgents, terrorists and criminals, we as a Government acknowledge our ongoing obligation to uphold and protect human rights as enshrined in our constitution.”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source
“At the same time, we plan to accelerate the pace of reconstruction and lay the foundations of a sustainable economy to generate employment, stimulate the private sector and capitalize on Iraq's wealth of natural resources. Whereas over the previous three years development has been frustrated, mainly by lack of security but also by transnational administration, we can now benefit from continuity in long-term planning in line with Iraq's national development strategy. As the mandates of the Development Fund for Iraq (DFI) and of the International Advisory and Monitoring Board are also due for review, the Government of Iraq proposes to continue the present arrangements according to resolution 1637 (2005). These bodies play a crucial role in promoting transparency in the disbursements of Iraq's resources for the benefit of the Iraqi people.”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source
“Successfully identifying necessary revisions and accommodating competing interests will further strengthen national consensus. For us to consolidate political stability we must also expedite socio-economic development and reconstruction. My Government is acting fast to restore public confidence by giving high priority to the provision of basic services and strengthening the Commission for Public Integrity to eradicate corruption and improve accountability. We are undertaking broad ministerial reform, capacity- building and modernizing of institutions within a core framework of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source
“Contrary to media portrayals and despite the terrorist tactics, civil war is not taking place in Iraq. However, there are increased incidents of sectarian violence. But Iraqis have a long history of peaceful coexistence. We have explicitly rejected attempts to stoke sectarian strife by exercising remarkable unity and restraint and by voting for a sovereign National Unity Government. That Government is broadly representative of, and is governing by the consent of, Iraq's multiethnic religious and political society. It assumes its legitimacy and authority from the constitution, which itself is a product of an inclusive process of consultation and compromise. 06-3890] Our next political challenge is the review of the constitution within agreed mechanisms stipulated in its charter.”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source
“Already our Government has, in a goodwill gesture of amnesty, released hundreds of detainees and prisoners. We continue to pursue political dialogue to broaden the political process. Despite intimidation, Sunni leaders joined us at the negotiating table. Last year, they boycotted elections; today they are an essential part of the national unity Government and hold top cabinet positions. Recently, Iraq and the Arab League jointly agreed to hold a reconciliation conference in Baghdad in early August. Under this umbrella, all those who believe in the political process and who are ready to abandon terrorism and violence as a means to an end will have the opportunity to participate, along with other Arab countries, a number of other friendly countries and the United Nations.”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source
“As the ongoing process of handing over security responsibilities from the MNF to Iraqi forces continues, more provinces will come under our control. Eliminating Zarqawi was a major blow to the Al-Qaida terrorist network and a victory for the MNF and the Iraqi forces and people, and for our intelligence gathering operations, a key weapon in the fight against terror networks and insurgency. As I speak today, a large security operation is under way in Baghdad, conducted jointly by Iraqi forces and the Multinational Force, to secure the political and economic heart of Iraq. This security plan will be extended to the rest of the country. My Government understands that security operations must go hand in hand with a series of initiatives to promote national consensus, tolerance, justice and respect for human rights.”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source
“In cooperation with the MNF, NATO training missions and protection forces of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), we are building up the capacity, training, professionalism and equipment of Iraqi forces. We share the same end goal as our coalition allies: for our forces to reach self- sufficiency as soon as possible so that the multinational troops can return home with our great gratitude. Volunteer recruits represent a cross-section of Iraqi society under the banner of Iraqi national identity. The Government of Iraq, as the sole legitimate administrator of armed forces, will activate its policy to demobilize militia members and integrate them into society. Our forces are gradually assuming responsibility for significant areas of the country and are leading independent offensive operations with visible success.”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source
“With the formation of a new full-term Government, and the recent elimination of the most notorious terrorist, Abu Musab Al-Zarqawi, who was responsible for the bombing of the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad in August 2003, we sense a great momentum among the Iraqi people and a very real chance to turn our situation around. But we remain realistic. We do not underestimate the challenge of getting a tight grip on the insurgency and uniting the country behind the new Government. Our agenda includes security as our immediate priority and the critical prerequisite to progress on national reconciliation, Government performance and economic development.”
2006-06-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5463 (2006) · source