Russia: Changes Needed for New US-proposed Resolution on Iraq

Home>>World

Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Sunday, May 18, 2003

Russia: Changes Needed for New US-proposed Resolution on Iraq

Russia does not consider the revised US-proposed resolution on Iraq a final draft since it has not eased Russia's concerns, Deputy Foreign Minister Yuri Fedotov said Saturday.

DISCUSSION

CHINESE

SEND TO FRIEND

Russia does not consider the revised US-proposed resolution on Iraq a final draft since it has not eased Russia's concerns, Deputy Foreign Minister Yuri Fedotov said Saturday.

"The new draft resolution has not eased our concerns. We have reason to believe that it is not the last version," the Interfax news agency quoted Fedotov as saying.

Although the United States is seeking an early adoption of the resolution, "the consultations are still underway," he noted, saying that the discussion should not focus on speed and deadlines.

"Mutually acceptable agreements must be reached" concerning the resolution, he stressed.

His remarks came one day after he said "serious changes" are necessary for the resolution submitted to the United Nations Security Council a week ago by the United States, Britain and Spain.

On Saturday, he explained that Russia intends to act constructively and flexibly to help restore unity within the UN Security Council, by forging constructive relations with all countries involved in post-war Iraqi reconstruction.

However, the basic principles of international law and the UN role in the contemporary world ought to be complied with, he said.

Fedotov pointed out that the resolution must clearly determine the occupational authorities' functions and clarify prospects for the setup of a new, lawful government in Iraq.

Moreover, "the UN's role must be defined and the responsibilities of the UN secretary general must be clarified to enable him to play an independent and active role in the process of establishing a new government in Iraq and reviving the country," he said.

Fedotov added that Russia has always supported lifting sanctions against Iraq as soon as possible, and efforts in this direction should continue in line with international laws and the existing UN Security Council resolutions.

Questions?Comments? Click here

Russia, US Look for Consensus on New Draft Resolution on Iraq

News Analysis: Russia, US Mending Post-war Ties

US, Russia Leaders Discuss Iraq, Terror Attacks

Int'l Community Aids China's SARS-control ( 2 Messages)

Feature:Nowhere to Find China's First SARS Infected ( 2 Messages)

Legal Framework for Tackling Public Health Crises Established ( 2 Messages)

BBC Leader Criticizes US Coverage of War against Iraq ( 5 Messages)

Vitamin C -- Effective Treatment of SARS: Australian Doctors ( 2 Messages)