UN studies Iraqi request

United Nation experts are in Baghdad to study an Iraqi proposal to import goods via its new friend Syria, giving the sanctions-hit country a fourth outlet, a UN official in Baghdad said.

"A team of special experts from the (sanctions) committees is in Iraq now to discuss a proposal option for the opening of the fourth crossing point on the Syrian-Iraqi border," the official said, asking not to be named. He said the experts would meet with Iraqi officials but did not say how long their visit would last.

The Syrian-Iraqi border was opened to businessmen in early June after a 15-year closure, as the two countries ruled by rival wings of the Baath party edge toward economic co-operation without renewing their diplomatic ties severed in 1980.

The two countries have signed contracts for the first time since 1980, and Syria has suggested its Mediterranean ports be used as a transit point for goods destined for Iraq.

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