Memorandum of understanding regarding Iraq and the UN

Undersecretary-General for Disarmament Affairs Jayantha Dhanapala was appointed by UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan to head the special group formed by the secretary-general to inspect the eight disputed "presidential" sites in Iraq.

The memorandum of understanding agreed upon by Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Tariq Aziz and Annan called for the establishment of the special group, although it is to consult with UNSCOM chief Richard Butler and the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency..

Butler expressed satisfaction over having to share his role with Dhanapala and did not view this as a threat to his authority, indicating that the draft agreement stipulates that he will submit findings to the Security Council, through the secretary-general.

Security Council discussions are ongoing with regard to a draft resolution submitted by the United Kingdom that specifies punitive action if Iraq does not live up to the agreement. Other members such as China, France and Russia have expressed reservations toward such a resoution.