Iraq resolution to be adopted

The new Iraq resolution of the UN Security Council can be adopted either before or during the general political debates at the UN General Assembly's session in New York, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Yuri Fedotov said at a RIA Novosti press conference.

Fedotov explained the adoption of the resolution was not meant to coincide with the meeting of heads of state and foreign ministers. In his words, the UN Security Council is not yet going to meet on the issue. Now it is more important to reach a consensus and restore unity in the Security Council as regards postwar Iraq arrangements than determine the resolution's timeframe.

In his words, Russia expects the new UN Security Council resolution on Iraq to formulate the single mandate of the multinational forces accountable to the UN Security Council.

Fedotov also noted Russia would like to see the relevant UN role enhanced by the resolution. Besides, Moscow expects the resolution to contain a specified timeframe of restoring Iraq's sovereignty and forming its legitimate government.

Asked whether Russia would participate in the multinational forces in Iraq, Fedotov said the issue was not yet under discussion.