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Iraq: Annan stresses value of inclusive national conference

Iraq: Annan stresses value of inclusive national conference

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Secretary-General Kofi Annan is advocating an inclusive and transparent national conference in Iraq, a United Nations spokesperson said today.

Responding to press questions, Marie Okabe said the Secretary-General strongly believes that the gathering later this week could contribute to stability in the country and "would enhance the chances for a peaceful political transition."

"Creating the conditions for a successful outcome to the conference is therefore more important than holding it on time," she said. Currently a small team of UN experts is helping in preparations for the meeting.

In its latest resolution on Iraq, the Security Council endorsed a timetable for the country's political transition, including the "convening of a national conference reflecting the diversity of Iraqi society."