Permanent Representative of France Briefs Press After Security Council Meeting on Iraq

Secretary-General Kofi Annan this morning outlined plans for reconstituting the United Nations' work in Iraq, while appealing for clear guidance of the Security Council on what role it is being asked to fulfil. Addressing the Security Council, just three days following the capture of Saddam Hussein, he said that this development provides an opportunity for a new beginning in the vital task of helping Iraqis to take control of their destiny - of helping them to create a secure, stable and independent Iraq, which can once again take its proper place in the region and in the international community. He stressed the urgency of restoring sovereignty to the Iraqis, and pledged the United Nations' active engagement in this endeavour.
Jean-Marc de La Sablière, Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations, briefing correspondents after the Security Council meeting.