Global perspective Human stories

In talks with Kuwaiti leaders, UN's top envoy to Baghdad urges aid to Iraq

In talks with Kuwaiti leaders, UN's top envoy to Baghdad urges aid to Iraq

Sergio Vieira de Mello
The senior United Nations envoy to Baghdad today underscored the need for outside aid to stabilize Iraq during talks with Kuwaiti officials, who responded positively to his call for help.

"The role of the United Nations in Iraq, the assistance of neighbouring countries in its reconstruction, and support for the newly created Governing Council were the main topics of discussion during a meeting between the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello, and the Prime Minister of Kuwait, His Royal Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sabah," a UN spokesman said in a statement released in Kuwait City, where the meetings were held.

Mr. Vieira de Mello and members of his team also met for an hour with Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah before holding a working lunch with the Director of the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, Abdul Latif Al-Hamad.

In his talks with the Kuwaiti Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister, the UN envoy emphasized the need for support from States bordering Iraq. "Iraq needs its neighbours and its neighbours need a stable, sovereign and peaceful Iraq," he said, stressing the importance of helping the newly established Iraqi Governing Council during the current transitional period.

The Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister affirmed Kuwait's "unequivocal support" for the UN's efforts in Iraq and pledged their country's backing for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of its civilian infrastructure, according to the statement.

Dr. Al-Hamad affirmed that the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development was ready to assist in the reconstruction efforts once the Board of Trustees has approved Iraq's reinstatement as a Fund member, the spokesman reported. Baghdad's membership has been suspended since 1990.

Mr. Vieira de Mello's visit to Kuwait is part of his broader effort to consult with leaders of Iraq's neighbouring States. He is scheduled to hold meetings in Turkey on Monday, and has already visited Saudi Arabia, Syria and Iran.