Blair today in Southern Iraq: warns Syria, Iraq against interventions
Iraq-UK, Politics, 5/29/2003

Britain prime minister Tony Blair started yesterday a visit to Kuwait marking the beginning of a tour on the region concerning southern Iraq, noting that there are "grave" security problems in Baghdad. He warned Syria and Iran from interfering in the Iraqi affairs.

The Kuwaiti prime minister Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah and his deputy the foreign minister received Blair upon his arrival at Kuwait's airport. Later in the day, the Amir of Kuwait met with Blair.

During his flight from London, Blair warned Syria and Iran from the consequences of interfering in drawing Iraq's future or supporting forces that might threaten steps aiming at achieving the Palestinian- Israeli peace. He said "It is especially important that Iran and Syria stop supporting terrorist groups." Blair explained to journalists accompanying him he will visit the British forces in Iraq, but the date of the visit was not specified due to security reasons.

He said that the visit will be to "thank our forces for their excellent performance" during the war. He said "much more is expected to be made in Iraq." He continued that life restored normalcy in the city of al-Basra which is controlled by the British forces. But he added that there are still "grave security problems" in Baghdad where the American forces control the situation. He ruled out the British forces to take part in the work of the American forces in Baghdad.

Blair was insistent saying that the American and British forces will find mass destruction weapons. "I have no doubt that we will find these weapons," Blair said. He however, added that Britain's basic interest is basically concentrated on humanitarian works and political rebuilding.

Previous Stories:
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  Britain resumes diplomatic activity in Iraq after 12 years   (5/2/2003)

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