Iraqi nomads expected to play more effective role

Iran's Expediency Council Chairman Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani in a meeting with a number of leaders of Iraqi Sunni and Shiite nomads today in Iran said that nomads are expected to play a more effective role under the present conditions, given that they can voice the requests of their nation.

Rafsanjani noted that Iraqi people and nomads are distinguished by their Islamic and national morals.

Lauding the Iraqi people's deep understanding of current developments, the official said that this shows the maturity and growth of the country and its people.

"If the Iraqi people fail to use the historical opportunity which is currently available to them, they will lose such a chance forever," he added.

Regretting the present situation in Iraq, he said that at times Iraqis are seen taking measures that are rooted in extremist prejudice.

Turning to migration of Iraqi intelligentsia from Iraq, Rafsanjani said "Insecurity should not be promoted by igniting the flames of baseless conflicts between Shiites and Sunnis to make such individuals leave their motherland despite the dire need for them."

The EC chairman referred to Iraq as a rich country and said that its manpower, history and God-granted reserves provide good grounds for turning it into an exemplary Third World country, adding that Iran will also benefit from a unified and advanced Iraq.

At the beginning of the session, a number of leaders of Iraqi Sunni and Shiite nomads presented a report on the areas of their residence, calling for further attention of Iran to their country.