Iraq looks for allies

Iraqi Foreign Minister Naji Sabri Al-Hadithi has made it clear that Baghdad is determined to solve all problems preventing the normalization of its relations with Iran. Such a warming in relations between the two countries will hardly be to America's liking.

The first round of the bilateral talks is due to take place in early December on the Iraqi-Iranian border. The second round is scheduled for early next year, according to the RIA Novosti news agency citing the Emirates’ VAM news agency. In the minister’s view, an impetus was given to the relations as a result of talks between Iraqi Vice President Taha Yasin Ramadan and Iranian President Muhammed Hatami, which recently took place in Teheran.

According to the minister, the problem of POWs and of those missing from the Iraqi-Iranian war of 1980-1088 remains the main obstacle of the improving of relations between the two countries. Recently, Iraq handed over to Teheran the remains of 70 Iranian servicemen, and Iran did the same, having given the remains of 15 Iraqis. The 8 years of war took tens of thousands of lives, but failed to solve religious disputes between Sunis and Shias. Strained relations between the two countries have perfectly fitted into Washington’s plans for the Middle East.

Saddam’s diplomatic move may change in the line-up of forces in the region, which will not be to America's benefit, especially after threats of the possible bombing of the Iraqi territory.

Dmitri Litvinovich PRAVDA.Ru

Read the original in Russian: http://www.pravda.ru/main/2001/11/21/34042.html