Bali, Indonesia – Foreign Affairs Secretary Blas F. Ople called on ASEAN and European member countries attending the ASEM conference in Bali, Indonesia to support United Nations Security Council Resolution 1483 in order to hasten the healing process in post-war Iraq.

Ople, in his remarks at the plenary session of the Asean-European Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (ASEM) said all nations must now rally around the needs of the Iraqi people by heeding the call of the United Nations to help the Iraqi people build a better future.

“Iraq’s stability will largely depend on the success of the international community in addressing the pressing humanitarian needs of the Iraqi people, and laying the groundwork for good governance, economic reform, growth and development,” Ople said.

He cited the Philippine government’s plan to send a modest humanitarian mission to Iraq as a gesture of support to the Iraqi people’s aspirations for peace and stability in their country.

UNSC Resolution 1483 lifts the 13-year sanctions on Iraq. It also encourages the international community to help rebuild Iraq. The role of the United Nations in post-war Iraq is assured with the provision in the resolution establishing the position of a UN Special Representative.

The resolution also reaffirms the coalition’s commitment to work with the UN and an Iraq interim administration until a more stable and democratic government can be established.

The call of the Philippine government for the international community to help heal the deep divisions in Iraq was echoed by United Kingdom Minister of State Mike O’ Brien who said, “The war is over, let’s look to the future. It’s time for all countries to help the Iraqi people.”

European Commission Head of Delegation Chris Patten said the European community is in favor of an independent trust fund under UN auspices to help Iraq.

China also said it stands ready for more consultations with ASEM partners on how to contribute to Iraq’s lasting peace and stability. (End)