France for swift transfer of sovereignty to Iraqi people

French president, Jacques chirac, has urged the United Nations to play "a locomotive role" in ensuring a swift transfer of sovereignty to the Iraqi people, and to assist Iraqis in drafting their own constitution and in preparing elections.

"It is difficult for the Iraqi people to accept a situation of occupation," said Jacques Chirac in an interview with MAP bureau in Paris, on the eve of his three-day state visit to Morocco this Oct.9-11.

He further explained that "effective responsibilities could be transferred gradually" insisting on a clear political perspective that makes it possible to get out of the present crisis (in Iraq). He also underscored the role of the United Nations in playing "a locomotive role in the political transition process and accompany Iraqis in drafting a constitution and preparing elections."

Asked whether France and the United States have bridged their gap on Iraq, the French leader said both countries "pursue the same objective: peace and stability in a sovereign and democratic Iraq on the path of progress."

Chirac said his country intends to "play a constructive role in ongoing discussions in the United Nations over the US draft resolution on Iraq," calling for enabling the Iraqis to be masters of their own destiny in order to secure the Arab state's stability and create conditions for reconstruction.