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Khatami says Iraqi people should participate in domestic affairs

IRNA

Tehran, Nov 17, IRNA -- President Mohammad Khatami said here Monday 
that he affirms the Iraq`s Governing Council and believe that it can 
be a positive force in establishing peace and democracy in the 
country. 
In a meeting with the Chairman of the Iraq Governing Council (IGC)
Jalal Talabani, he said, "The destiny of the regional states are 
intertwined." 
He expressed concern about growing insecurity in Iraq and said, "I
hope statements by the US official pertaining to handing over of the 
internal affairs to Iraqis are sincere." 
The speedy implementation of such a policy will presage 
reconstruction and security in Iraq. 
He referred to the importance of drafting of an Iraqi 
constitution, adding any Iraqi government should be based on people`s 
consent and encompass all ethnic groups. 
"All Iraqi segments should participate to alleviate the current 
shortcomings," Khatami added. 
He further highlighted the need for all nations to participate in 
the Iraqi reconstruction drive. Although Iran is on the side of Iraq 
and is prepared to help in various areas, `it maintains that no 
country should intervene in the country`s domestic affairs`, the 
president added. 
Khatami said that such bilateral cooperation embraces economic, 
technical, trade, and religious affairs, as well as collaboration in 
the oil and gas sectors. 
For his part, Talabani expressed appreciation over Iran`s position
on recognizing the Iraqi Governing Council saying, "The two nations 
have long and historic ties." 
He also said Iran was instrumental in removal of Saddam Hossein. 
"Hopefully the visit by the Iraqi delegation to Tehran will be 
constructive for both countries," declared Talabani. 
He also pointed to Iran`s role in Iraqi reconstruction drive and 
rebuilding the cities where the holy shrines are located. 
He said that the constitution will be drafted by a representative 
parliament. "We believe that the foreign forces cannot establish 
security and people should be at the helm of the domestic affairs." 
Talabani said, "The governing council and coalition forces have 
agreed on the transfer of power to the council." 
Talabani heading a 17-member delegation arrived in Tehran on 
Monday and was welcomed by Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi. 
Talabani told reporters upon his arrival in Tehran that he expects
to reach important agreements with Iran on political, economic and 
security areas. 
Some 10 IGC members and seven ministers are accompanying Talabani.
He said that Iran is one of the countries which immediately 
recognized the Iraqi Governing Council and `currently we are visiting 
to develop relations with Iran`. 
NB/AH/210 
End