Speech by Joschka Fischer, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, at the International Conference on Iraq, Brussels, 22 June 2005

Mr Chairman, Excellencies, Colleagues, Ladies and gentlemen,

I would like to extend a special welcome to the representatives of the Iraqi Government and the Iraqi National Assembly. After all, with the parliamentary elections leading to the formation of a democratically elected Government, your people has taken a decisive step forward on the road to democratic self-determination.

The fact that we are meeting here today in Brussels shows that the international community is united in its support for the new Iraq. We want to help the people of Iraq as they take on the important tasks that lie ahead: drawing up a constitution and improving the security situation and living conditions in Iraq.

Germany and the European Union are actively involved. We are advising Iraqi decision-makers in the constitutional process, we are training members of the security forces, we have launched far-reaching debt relief for Iraq and we are supporting the political, economic and cultural reconstruction efforts with wide-ranging aid. We also fully support the role of the United Nations.

Iraq's neighbouring countries play a central role in this process. Together with the Iraqis, they have to shape a shared and peaceful future for the region. This cannot happen without mutual respect, the commitment to non-interference and further confidence-building measures. The agreements on improved border and security cooperation have to be implemented. A comprehensive solution for Iraqi debt has to be reached. Concrete regional cooperation builds trust and is the best guarantee for peace. We are ready to share the European experience in this matter.

But ultimately it is only the Iraqis themselves who can make the transition process work. All relevant political and social groups have to be involved. An inclusive and transparent constitutional process is essential for the approval of the draft constitution in the referendum. If the Iraqis accept the new constitution as a basis for co-existence, there is hope of long-term stabilization.

The cohesion of Iraqi society is under enormous strain. The painful years of tyranny and war have left deep wounds. The cowardly acts of terrorism are an attempt to make these divisions permanent.

We cannot let this happen. Terror and violence must not gain the upper hand. Overcoming ethnic and religious tensions is therefore vital. This can only work in a democratic and pluralistic society which respects human rights, including the rights of women and the rights of minorities.

Again, reaching agreement on the constitution through an inclusive process is the decisive step. It will help pave the way for a broad-based process of reconciliation within society.

I am confident that we will take decisions and develop proposals today that will help you, Mr Sebari, and your compatriots in your efforts to achieve a peaceful and democratic Iraq.

Thank you very much.

June 22, 2005

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