UN security team in Iraq for talks with coalition

A two-person team from the United Nations is in Iraq for talks with the coalition on various security matters, a UN spokesman in New York confirmed today.

The team, comprising a military adviser and a security coordinator, arrived in Baghdad today with the primary purpose of liasing with the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) and the coalition forces, spokesman Stephane Dujarric said at a press briefing.

"This is very important in achieving enhanced safety and security for our local United Nations personnel, as well as that of UN premises," he said.

He added that the opening of a direct line of communication with the coalition on security matters "is necessary for the planning for the safety and security of UN personnel, activities and assets in Iraq and for an eventual return of UN international staff to Iraq."

A separate field security assessment will be needed should Secretary-General Kofi Annan decide to send in an electoral team, Mr. Dujarric noted. In talks on Monday, Iraqi and coalition officials asked the Secretary-General to consider dispatching an advisory team to Iraq to examine the feasibility of elections - as well as possible alternatives - before the handover of sovereignty at the end of June.

In other news, the spokesman also confirmed that Ambassador Robert Blackwell of the United States National Security Council had invited UN Special Adviser Lakhdar Brahimi for consultations Thursday in Washington.

The meeting, which took place in the White House and included National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice and Secretary of State Colin Powell, focused on Iraq and Afghanistan, Mr. Dujarric said.

He added that, as a senior adviser to the Secretary-General on peace and security issues, it was only normal for Mr. Brahimi to be consulted on Iraq, one of the most pressing international concerns.

Noting Mr. Brahimi's unique mix of talent and experience, the spokesman said it was unsurprising that his views were sought, but added that he has not been offered the job of UN Special Representative for Iraq. As an Adviser, Mr. Brahimi will be based in New York.