Iran-US talks on Iraq essential: Iraqi MP
Iraq-Iran-USA, Politics, 5/2/2006

The Leader of National Fraction of Iraq at the parliament said yesterday he believed holding talks between Iranian and US officials was essential and would help establish security in Iraq.

Alawi told Radio Iraq "Holding direct talks between the IRI and US officials on Iraq, or between others in that respect, can help restore peace and stability in this country."

Alawi meanwhile emphasized, "The Islamic Republic of Iran enjoys a superior status in the region, is our strong neighbor, and I have on various occasions emphasized its unique status."

Alawi during the meeting proposed, "It is time for restoration of peace and stability in the region and for establishment of a "Great Regional Cooperation Pact" among such countries in the region as India, Iran, Iraq, and the Persian Gulf states."

The former Iraqi Prime Minister reiterated, "The establishment of such a great pact would not only be aimed at achieving security objectives, but also securing the economic interests of the regional nations, so that our people, too, would taste well being and peace." Alawi said, "I had also proposed this plan in earlier opportunities."

Iran's Secretary of Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) said yesterday that Iran does not need to talk to the US. Iran did not ask for talks with the US, on the contrary it was they who insisted on meeting with Iran on Iraq which did not happen, Ali Larijani said.

Larijani responded to a question on what he meant by Iran-US not having talks saying "so far, these discussions have not taken place."

The US has indicated recently reluctance to engage in talks with Iran after it initially indicated desire to do so.

Previous Stories:
  Iran's FM criticizes US policies on Iraq   (4/24/2006)
  US - Iran talks after Iraqi government formation   (4/19/2006)
  Rafsanjani: Iran accepts US call for talks on Iraq   (4/18/2006)

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