Arab diplomatic efforts underway to resolve Iraq situation
Regional-Iraq, Politics, 2/5/1998

Esmat Abdel Meguid, the secretary-general of the Arab League, is in Baghdad at the authorization of Egyptian President Mubarak, acting as the head of the Arab summit, to meet with Iraqi President Saddam Hussein and high-ranking officials in a sincere Arab attempt to halt the escalation of events between United Nations and Iraq.

Also Turkish Foreign Minister Ismael Cem headed to Baghdad today delivering an initiative composed of 4 items for finding a peaceful solution to the crisis between Iraq and the United Nations which was the center of talks between an American delegation and officials in Ankara.

The 4 items the Turkish initiation are: the Iraqi retreat from its position, and implementation of Security Council resolutions concerning disarmament, avoidance of an armed clash, respect for Iraqi territory, and procedures to boost the Iraqi economy and ease the Iraqi people's suffering.

Broadcast reports said that the Turkish foreign minister had received a positive reply regarding his initiative visit to Iraq.

Meguid confirmed that he will meet with the Iraqi president to solve the crisis and find a peaceful solution for the crisis through diplomatic means and avoid any military action that will create several problems in the region.

Meanwhile, President Mubarak, who received a phone call from US President Clinton to discuss the Iraqi and Middle East situation, discussed with Jordan's King Hussein through a phone call the diplomatic efforts currently underway to avoid a military strike against Iraq.

Jordan's foreign minister, Fayez Taraunah confirmed that Amman is against any attack against Iraq, referring to his country's efforts with different international Arab and Islamic parties to avoid any disaster that could result from a military escalation.

The Jordanian minister also announced his country's decision not to allow any use of its airspace, should Washington resort to the military action.

Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan made a phone call to Iranian President Mohammed Khatami, aiming at initiating an Islamic effort to prevent the escalation of the situation and to halt any military work against Iraq.

Previous Stories:
  Arab League condemns threats against Iraq   (2/4/1998)
  Russia: Strong words to the US over Iraq   (2/4/1998)
  Iraq to open new sites, Arab solution sought   (2/3/1998)

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