UN: The UN has called on communities in Iraq to reach out to each other, warning that increasing sectarian violence, continued lack of security and ongoing human rights violations posed 'key' challenges as the country prepares for next week's elections.
In a report to the Security Council, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan expressed satisfaction over 'considerable achievement' despite the difficult conditions of keeping the political process on target.
However, Annan noted that Iraq remains beset with formidable security, political and economic challenges.
"The forthcoming election and formation of a new permanent government will not mark the end of the country's political transition, but rather the beginning of a new phase in which responsible politics and leadership will make the difference between success and failure," he said.
The main thrust of the report concerns the need for national reconciliation between the majority Shiite Arabs and the Sunni Arabs and Kurds.
According to Annan, the most positive development over the past quarter has been the determination of the Sunni Arabs to "make their voice heard through engagement in the political process."
He praised the Arab League for organising a preparatory meeting for an Iraqi national accord conference scheduled for February.
"Provided with adequate space and support from outside, the Iraqi parties have demonstrated their capacity to engage collectively in dialogue over difficult issues," he added.
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