Kofi Annan talks to Islamic Conference about Iraq

Kofi Annan, the secretary general of the United Nations, welcomed cooperation with the Organization of the Islamic Conference to reach a solution for the Iraqi crisis through diplomatic means.

In a communique to Ezzedin al-Iraqi, secretary-general of the OIC, Annan said Security Council members had expressed their deep anxiety toward the escalation of tension in the region, and said he is ready to help resolve the issue according to the UN's charter, which imposes the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions before resorting to force.

Kofi Annan also said that he confirmed to the members that if a diplomatic solution cannot be reached to the crisis, this will lead to dangerous consequences and a new cycle of destruction in Iraq.

Annan informed the OIC secretary-general of his suggestion concerning the implementation of the oil-for-food program, to improve the conditions of the Iraqi people. Annan said this matter must not be connected to the efforts exerted to solving the Iraqi dispute.

Annan's message to Dr. Ezzedin confirmed the necessity of Iraqi's adherence to UN Security Council resolutions to head off any military action.