Egypt stresses UN role in post-war Iraq, says Iraqis should determine future

CAIRO (AFP) Apr 05, 2003
Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Maher said Saturday the the United Nations should play a role in post-war Iraq, and that the future government in Baghdad should be chosen by the Iraqis themselves.

"The will of this people should be respected, and the United Nations, the body that usually brings conflict to settlement, should shoulder its responsibility," Maher told reporters.

Diplomatic wrangling is under way on post-war Iraq. The European Union and Russia are seeking a greater role for the UN than the United States, set to become the leading occupying power in Iraq, is ready to allow.

Egypt is opposed to the US-led invasion of Iraq and has repeatedly called for a ceasefire.

SPACE.WIRE