By NNN-KUNA,
Brussels : The European Union has welcomed the Annual Review Conference of the International Compact with Iraq in Stockholm.
An EU member state hosting this event Thursday strongly manifests the EU’s support for the partnership with the government of Iraq and underlines the 27-member European bloc’s clear commitment to contribute to the political and economic reconstruction of Iraq, noted an EU Presidency statement.
The EU underlined its support for a secure, stable, democratic, prosperous and unified Iraq where human rights are respected and reiterated its commitment to the independence and sovereignty of Iraq.
“The broad involvement of the international community, including Iraq’s neighbours is vital for further achievement of the agreed benchmarks and promotion of sustainable development,” it said.
The EU expressed concern over the human rights situation in Iraq, and welcomed the expressed commitment by the government of Iraq to improve the situation throughout the country. “Increased respect for human rights is essential to achieve reconciliation between Iraq’s communities and sustain improvements in the security situation,” said the EU statement.
It recalled the obligation of the Iraqi government and the international community to protect and assist displaced Iraqis inside Iraq and in neighbouring countries.
The EU stressed that further improvements in the security situation in Iraq are key to efforts to build a stable and prosperous state.
The EU underlined its strong support for the central role of the UN in Iraq as formulated in the United Nations Security Ccouncil resolution 1770.
Slovenia holds the current EU presidency.