Security Council welcomes new Iraqi Government, hopes for completion

The United Nations Security Council has welcomed the recent formation in Iraq of a new Government while voicing hope that the process would soon be completed.

“The Council is particularly encouraged by the fact that the Government is representative of Iraq’s many diverse communities and expresses its hope that the Ministers of Defence, Interior and National Security Affairs will be appointed as soon as possible,” the Council President, Basile Ikouébé of the Republic of Congo, said in a formal statement on Wednesday.

Welcoming the 20 May inauguration of Iraq’s constitutionally elected Government, the Council congratulated the people of Iraq “on this milestone in their country’s political transition.”

The statement encouraged the new Government to promote national reconciliation through dialogue and to build an atmosphere in which sectarianism is rejected. “The Security Council, at the same time, urges all Iraqis to participate in the political process peacefully, demanding that those who continue to use violence lay down their arms,” said the President, condemning acts of terrorism.

The Government was urged to deliver improvements in security and stability, in human rights and the rule of law, in the provision of essential services, and in economic progress and prosperity. In addition, the Council strongly outside help for Iraq’s sovereign Government “at this crucial time,” noting the particular role of the country’s neighbours.