Vietnam’s representative to the UN Security Council, Ambassador Le Luong Minh, made the request at the council’s debate on Iraq and the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) in New York on November 16. 

The diplomat condemned terrorist attacks, including the recent attacks in Baghdad on 19 August and 25 October 2009, which killed hundreds of civilians, injured many more and caused extensive damage to local property. 

He repeated the demand that those responsible be brought to justice and in this regard, supported the Secretary-General’s measures in response to the Iraqi Government’s request for more assistance from the UN. 

Raising concerns about the political, economic, social and humanitarian challenges that Iraq is facing, the ambassador expressed his delight at the progress that has been recorded in Iraq. He cited an agreement by the Council of Representatives on amendments to electoral law, the continued commitment of both the Government of Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government to resolve their differences through dialogue, and the steady rate of return of internally displaced persons and refugees. 

Having voiced support for efforts to further Iraq’s regional and international re-integration, the diplomat urged all parties concerned to step up their talks and cooperate with one another to settle issues of mutual concern. 

Mr Minh said that Vietnam backs the efforts of the UN, the UNAMI, regional organisations and the international community to assist Iraq. He suggested that once the Development Assistance Framework 2011-2014 starts to produce results, the UN agencies should deliver as one to ensure the efficient coordination of international assistance, which will help to economise resource, enhance efficiency and, most importantly, address Iraq’s priorities.