On the file of hostages in Iraq

Concerning the file of hostages in Iraq, the Cypriot foreign ministry announced that the Lebanese- Cypriot, Qara Beit Shakerjian, who was kidnapped in Iraq five months ago was released.

Shakerjian has been working in Iraq since August 2003 for Jetco Trading company. Following the kidnapping operation, the company announced halting its activities in Iraq, in response to the demands set by the kidnappers.

On the other hand, the Sudanese foreign ministry announced the release of its five diplomats who were held as hostage in Iraq. This step came one day after Sudan announcement closing its diplomatic mission in Baghdad. The kidnappers had made this demand.