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UN chief says 2012 will be "promising new chapter" in history of Iraq
(Xinhua)
10:54, January 04, 2012
UNITED NATIONS, Jan. 3 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Tuesday said that 2012 poses new opportunities and challenges for Iraq as a nation.
"Iraq this year begins a promising new chapter in its history," Ban said in a statement released here by his spokesperson, Martin Nesirky. "The secretary-general believes that this is an opportunity for Iraq to further strengthen its democratically- elected institutions and to promote peace and stability for the benefit of the Iraqi people."
Iraq faces a new period in its development, as the U.S. military, which invaded in 2003, ended their mission in the country at the end of 2011, withdrawing their troops. As 2012 begins, however, Iraq is dealing with another challenge in the form of domestic political disagreements.
The statement said that Ban wishes to express his concern about political tensions "that could contribute to further insecurity in the country."
"He therefore strongly supports calls for political dialogue to address outstanding issues in a spirit of partnership and national unity," said the statement.
The Iraqi political crisis was catalysed by an attempt by Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki to have Vice President Tariq Al- Hashimi arrested on terror charges.
"The secretary-general urges all parties to work to resolve their differences peacefully through meaningful dialogue and compromise," the statement noted. "It is essential that pending political issues are resolved in a way that respects the constitution and its provisions for the separation of powers, the rule of law and an independent judiciary."
The statement added that the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq( UNAMI) will continue to consult with Iraqi leaders and provide assistance as needed.
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(Xinhua)
10:54, January 04, 2012
UNITED NATIONS, Jan. 3 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Tuesday said that 2012 poses new opportunities and challenges for Iraq as a nation.
"Iraq this year begins a promising new chapter in its history," Ban said in a statement released here by his spokesperson, Martin Nesirky. "The secretary-general believes that this is an opportunity for Iraq to further strengthen its democratically- elected institutions and to promote peace and stability for the benefit of the Iraqi people."
Iraq faces a new period in its development, as the U.S. military, which invaded in 2003, ended their mission in the country at the end of 2011, withdrawing their troops. As 2012 begins, however, Iraq is dealing with another challenge in the form of domestic political disagreements.
The statement said that Ban wishes to express his concern about political tensions "that could contribute to further insecurity in the country."
"He therefore strongly supports calls for political dialogue to address outstanding issues in a spirit of partnership and national unity," said the statement.
The Iraqi political crisis was catalysed by an attempt by Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki to have Vice President Tariq Al- Hashimi arrested on terror charges.
"The secretary-general urges all parties to work to resolve their differences peacefully through meaningful dialogue and compromise," the statement noted. "It is essential that pending political issues are resolved in a way that respects the constitution and its provisions for the separation of powers, the rule of law and an independent judiciary."
The statement added that the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq( UNAMI) will continue to consult with Iraqi leaders and provide assistance as needed.
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