Diplomats in Russia - France - China on Iraq

US Defense Secretary William Cohen, who arrived in Moscow on Thursday after concluding a three-day tour of the Gulf states, said that all Gulf states told him they prefer a diplomatic solution to the crisis with Iraq.

Meanwhile, French President Jacques Chirac said he believes in the possibility of finding a peaceful solution to this crisis, adding that his country has exerted relentless efforts to this end.

As foreign press reports expected the US and Britain to direct air-based attacks against Iraq within the coming days after the completion of military preparations, Russia announced that its envoy Posovaluke is continuing his intensive efforts in Iraq, noting that there is still a tangible possibility to arrive at a peaceful resolution.

China said it will suggest proposals for a settlement to the crisis to US ambassador Bill Richardson who is in China, but refrained from disclosing the content of these proposals beyond saying that the US efforts are not constructive as they will "not help in finding a solution" to the inspection access problem.

Meanwhile, Iraq said in a statement made by Foreign Minister Muhammad Saeed al-Sahaf that the door is still open for diplomatic efforts, adding that Egypt, Syria and the Arab League have agreed on joint efforts and coordination to promote peace efforts pertaining to the crisis with the US.