Continued improvement in Iraq’s security situation, Ban reports

A combination of political and military efforts has led to continued improvements in security across Iraq in the past three months, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes in his latest report to the Security Council on the United Nations Assistance Mission to the country (UNAMI).

Mr. Ban cautions that the gains made so far need to be sustained through meaningful political dialogue and national reconciliation.

“Time is of the essence, and Iraq can no longer afford continued delays in finding viable political solutions,” the Secretary-General says in the quarterly report, released today.

The Secretary-General also highlights the issue of disputed internal boundaries in the country and says it remains a priority for the UNAMI. He strongly encourages the Iraqi authorities and political stakeholders to explore opportunities created by the mission’s work on this delicate issue.

UNAMI will also continue to assist Iraq’s independent electoral commission in planning for governorate elections, Mr. Ban says, but warns that unless a new electoral law is passed in time Iraqis will be deprived of the chance to vote this year, which could alienate various communities.

According to the report, rising levels of oil income offer an opportunity to improve the management and accountability of the country’s financial resources, but Mr. Ban says that essential services are still lacking and fuel shortages remain widespread in a country with vast oil reserves. He stresses that job creation is vital.

“Although Iraq forecasts around 7 per cent growth for 2008, the new wealth has not lifted many Iraqis out of poverty or reduced unemployment levels,” he writes.

While welcoming new commitments to assist people displaced inside the country, the Secretary-General also calls on the Iraqi Government to develop ways of helping the Iraqi refugee community in the region, in cooperation with neighbouring host countries.

Mr. Ban says the fact that a growing number of Arab States have expressed their willingness to re-establish a diplomatic presence in Baghdad is a positive development, and the decision by the United Arab Emirates to forgive Iraqi debt is a strong step that he hopes is taken by others in the region.