Istanbul meeting for peaceful solution to Iraqi crisis
Regional-Iraq, Politics, 1/25/2003

The Foreign Ministers of Syria, Turkey, Iran, Jordan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia have expressed support to the unity and sovereignty of the Iraqi territories, and to the finding of a peaceful solution to the Iraqi crisis whereby the destructive consequences of the war would be averted.

In a joint statement issued at the early hours of Friday, the foreign ministers indicated that the immediate aim of the six-country regional initiative is to find a peaceful solution to the Iraqi issue, and this initiative will continue until a solution is found to the standing problems and peace, security and welfare are ensured for all.

The statement called on Iraq to be committed to the UN Security Council resolutions and to the continuation of cooperation with the international inspectors in line with UN. Security Council resolution 1441.

The foreign ministers expressed their countries readiness for cooperation with the Security Council for finding a peaceful solution to the Iraqi question.

The statement added that the practical steps which would be taken by Iraq would represent a step toward the target of having a Middle East free of mass destruction weapons as stated by UN. Security Council resolution 687.

The statement stressed the commitment of the six countries to finding a peaceful solution to the Palestinian problem and to the implementation of the relevant UN. resolutions for the achievement of just and comprehensive peace in the Middle East.

The Turkish foreign minister read the final statement. For his part, the Syrian Foreign Minister, Farouk Al-Shara pointed out that the six-meeting countries agreed on support to a peaceful solution and rejection of military action, and that the UN Security Council is authorized to implementing its resolution 1441, which under no circumstances give pretext for launching a war on Iraq.

The ministers decided to hold their next meeting in Damascus if it is needed.

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