Iraq's UN Envoy Reacts to Resolution Expanding UN Mandate in Iraq

Aug 10, 02:39 PM

Current Headlines: Dubai Al-Arabiya Television in Arabic at 1600 gmt on 10 August reports on the new UNSC resolution expanding the UN's mandate and mission in Iraq.

Following the report, Al-Arabiya carries a satellite interview with Hamid al-Bayyati, Iraq's ambassador to the UN, in New York.

Asked whether the UN's "new role" in Iraq can serve the Iraqi people's interest, especially since the resolution expanded the UN's mandate for one year only, Al-Bayyati says: "In fact, this resolution came after lengthy consultations. Voting on the resolution was postponed from yesterday until today because of these consultations. We reached a formula that satisfied all parties - all the Security Council members who voted unanimously, and the Iraqi Government. I believe that this resolution is in the interest of the Iraqi people because it expanded the powers and the mandate of the UN mission in Iraq, especially on the domestic, regional and humanitarian levels."

Asked whether this resolution will solve the refugees' issue within one year, Al-Bayyati says: "The UN has the United Nations Higher Commission for Refugees and others international institutions and organizations that can provide help to those refugees inside and outside Iraq. The resolution also spoke of a UN role along with [Iraq's] neighbouring countries. The UN can play a role with these neighbouring countries to help those refugees."

Asked whether the UN will assume the tasks of the multinational troops or the US forces in Iraq, Al-Bayyati says that the resolution did not speak of a military role that will be carried out by the UN. He adds that the UN will play a role in the domestic political situation, relations with Iraq's neighbouring countries, and humanitarian issues."

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