Iraq's deputy premier holds constructive talks in Damascus
Iraq-Syria, Politics, 11/24/1997

The meeting between Syria's Vice-President Abdul Halim Khaddam and Iraq's Deputy Premier Tariq Aziz reviewed the latest crisis, its circumstances and efforts exerted to overcome it. The two officials stressed the importance of implementing all Security Council resolutions on Iraq and their talks dealt with Arab relations and the situation in the region.

In a press statement following the meeting, Aziz described his meeting with Khaddam as positive adding, "I briefed Khaddam on the Iraqi point of view on the events and the contacts Iraq has recently made." Commenting on whether these talks are a start for political relations between Syria and Iraq, Aziz said, "The relations between the two countries are developing and we hope to go on in this direction in the future."

In reply to a question whether discussions have dealt with the Syrian-Iraqi suspended files, Aziz said: "In my opinion there are no suspended files, but there is a calm discussion between the two parties which is based on the common interests .. and reaching a better Arab stand to confront all challenges."

On whether Aziz expects an improvement in Syrian-Iraqi relations, Aziz said "My presence in Damascus is an evidence of this improvement." Mr. Aziz declined to comment on a question about the return of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Concerning the atmosphere of the talks, Mr. Al-Sharaa said: "The atmosphere was constructive and useful because we listened to the entire Iraqi crisis with the UN Security Council. Naturally, we were interested in some details on the special monitoring committee, following up the implementation of the Security Council resolutions and the question of Kuwaiti prisoners and the missing. Mr. Aziz has clarified to us the Iraqi position on these details. For our part, we confirmed Syria's keenness to lift the suffering of the brotherly Iraqi people and to accelerate the committee's work and the implementation of resolutions so that there will not be any pretexts that hinder the lifting of the suffering of the people of Iraq."

On whether the talks on bilateral relations that were held in Damascus will be resumed soon Mr. al-Sharaa said: "We discussed Arab conditions and reviewed dangers besetting the region and all that affect its security and stability." Sharaa concluded that all sides must create opportunities to seriously discuss all those issues in the interest of the two countries and the Arab nation.

Previous Stories:
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