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Statement by H.E. Ambassador Adiyatwidi Adiwoso Asmady at the Meeting on the International Compaq with Iraq (ICI) New York. July 20, 2007
Mr. Chairman,
We are also very pleased to have among us Dr. Sinan Al-Shabibi, the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq. We thank Madam Ashe Rose Migro, the Deputy Secretary-General, and Mr. Ibrahim Gambari, the Secretary-General’s Special Advisor on the ICI and other Political Issues, as well for their statements. My delegation commends the courageous people of Iraq and their government for their unfailing commitment to the cause of strong, united, and democratic Iraq despite facing tremendous hardships. The elements of political progress, security and rule of law, and economic reform and reconstruction, are crucial for national recovery, and have been rightly highlighted by Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki as the three pillars of the Compact. Mr. Chairman, The humanitarian consequences of the continuing violence in Iraq are a matter of great concern to us. The displacement of nearly four million Iraqis from their homes is a grave crisis. We very much appreciate the work done by UNHCR and other humanitarian actors in trying to address the needs of Iraqi IDPs and refugees. We also commend the generosity of the receiving countries. However, much more support is required from the international community to effectively deal with the situation of Iraqi refugees. The people of Iraq face dire shortages of basic amenities like electricity, water, sewage disposal, and health facilities in a number of regions. Critical infrastructure also lacks or it is in need of substantial repair in several places. The ICI is a positive illustration of the international partnership and support, which are imperative for the government of Iraq to successfully implement its national strategies. In view of the grave challenges as highlighted in the Mid year Compact Report, it is critical that the financial assistance and debt write-off pledges amounting to USD 38 billion made at the Sharm El Sheikh Compact Meeting in May 2007 are fulfilled at the earliest. The best of governmental planning would not be able to bring relief to the public if there are unpredictable and insufficient resources. In this regard, Indonesia has already provided debt relief to Iraq. It is also fundamental that all national priorities and action plans are developed by the government. Without that it would be difficult to maintain the necessary national ownership. Another key aspect for sustainable progress in Iraq is an inclusive national dialogue and reconciliation process. As we have seen atrocities and infighting cannot be fully tackled by the security approach alone. We hope that the government will continue to take measures that further the spirit of co-existence and harmony among the people, leading to solid institutionalisation of a pluralistic polity. In realising the Indonesian commitment to support the Iraqi unity and peace consolidation, Indonesia hosted the International Conference of Islamic Leaders for Reconciliation in Iraq in April this year. The Conference adopted a declaration, which aimed to realise inclusive reconciliation based on values of peace, justice, equality, freedom, tolerance, and consultation. Indeed, Iraq is experiencing a major transformation that cannot happen instantly. A successful attainment of a stable and prosperous Iraq requires further positive measures not only by its government but by the regional countries and the broader international community as well. We fully support the UN’s role in helping Iraq achieve the goals of the Compact. We welcome the intention of the Secretary General to consider an expanded role and presence of the UN in Iraq. In our view, there are presently three possible ways to bolster the UN’s role; a flexible presence of more UN institutions in the country, greater institutional foothold at the UN headquarters, and a stronger support by the UN for Iraq in the various international processes. Indonesia reiterates its firm support to our Iraqi brethren and their government in the pursuit of a united, democratic, and prosperous Iraq. I thank you.
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