Middle East News
Secretary General Annan welcomes new Iraqi government
May 21, 2006, 2:06 GMT
New York - United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan late Saturday welcomed the formation of an Iraqi government of national unity and congratulated new Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki.
Al-Maliki leads the first constitutionally elected government of Iraq.
In a statement issued from UN headquarters in New York, Annan expressed the hope that 'the process of forming a broad-based and inclusive government will be completed as soon as possible, so that it will be able to quickly address the crucial issues of national reconciliation, security, the rule of law, respect for human rights, reconstruction and development.'
Annan is currently on a tour of Asia.
In the statement, he urged the Iraqi people 'to seize the opportunity offered by the successful establishment of a broad-based and inclusive government and come together to support their new government and build the foundations of a united, peaceful and prosperous Iraq.'
© 2006 dpa - Deutsche Presse-AgenturCOMMENT
blog comments powered by DisqusLatest Headlines in Middle East
- 1. Jerusalem prelate tells Arab Spring youth to have confidence
- 2. More than 100 killed in Syria ahead of ceasefire deadline
- 3. At least 43 killed in Syria, despite UN criticism
- 4. 19 killed in Syria as ceasefire deadline approaches
- 5. Pilgrims flock to Jerusalem for Easter, Passover
Older Talkback
