Powell: Conference participants pledge to support Iraqi reconciliation

US Secretary of State Colin Powell said Tuesday participants in Sharm El Sheikh international conference on Iraq pledged support for national reconciliation in Iraq through dialogue and democratic participation.

Speaking at a press conference, he said the latest developments in Iraq such as extending government control over "rebel" cities and setting a date for legislative elections form the basis for the implementation of UN Security Council resolution 1546.

"The ministerial international conference on Iraq had neighbours and international community comes together for the, reconstruction of Iraq and for supporting free and fair elections by the end of January."

"We must support the political process, we encourage all Iraqis to participate in the forthcoming elections," said Washington's top diplomat.

"There is a consensus on having the elections in Iraq to be held as scheduled. No delegation suggests delaying the Iraqi elections.'

Powell said the countries 'and regional and international organizations which took part in the conference condemned "terrorist operations" in Iraq and pledged to prevent the movement of "terrorists, weapons and money" across the borders.

"The opportunity for coalition augmented by other nations is helping Iraq train its security forces and is helping Iraqis become more responsible for their own security."

ÊÊÊ On his talks with Syrian Foreign Minister Farouk Al-Shara, Powell said they discussed Syrian efforts to stem the flow of "terrorists, weapons and money" across the borders with Iraq. He said Damascus has taken "substantial steps" in this respect, adding "there are a lot more the Syrians can do about Iraq.