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NEWS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND 7115 South Boundary Boulevard MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101 Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894

April 5, 2003
Release Number: 03-04-53


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Military Coordination and Liaison Command operates in Northern Iraq

Stuttgart, Germany (April 5, 2003) - The Forward Command Element of the Military Coordination and Liaison Command, led by U.S. Marine Maj. Gen. Pete Osman, arrived in Northern Iraq and began working there March 25. Since then, Osman has met with all primary and numerous other Iraqi Opposition leaders in the region, conveying U.S. intentions and explaining U.S. plans and operations in Northern Iraq. The MCLC's continued presence and activities in the region lend stability to Northern Iraq, as the organization fosters open communication and synchronized efforts among the various organizations operating there.
The MCLC was established by U.S. European Command in order to conduct liaison and coordination with military and humanitarian assistance organizations. Now under the operational control of U.S. Central Command, the organization's function is to provide a stabilizing effect in the northern region, coordinate international activities in Northern Iraq and support humanitarian assistance efforts.
The U.S. and its partners are committed to obtaining freedom for the people of Iraq; the MCLC underscores that commitment. U.S. and coalition partners support the establishment of a secure, stable, and free Iraq, which includes the preservation of current internationally recognized borders. In liberating Iraq, coalition forces wish to provide the Iraqi people with an opportunity to establish a government, which will protect the rights and freedoms of all citizens of the newly liberated nation.
While civilian organizations have the lead in providing humanitarian assistance in the region, the MCLC will assist in facilitating the endeavor by ensuring military and humanitarian efforts are successfully deconflicted. We believe that a new government of Iraq, free from tyranny, dedicated to providing its citizens equal rights and the opportunity for self-determination, will be the only effective and enduring means by which it will rejoin the family of nations. We intend to demonstrate, by word and deed, the coalition's commitment to freedom, peace and stability within Iraq.
For more information about the MCLC, news media representatives are encouraged to contact the MCLC public affairs officer at 49-(0) 711-729-4458 or via e-mail at mclc-pao@eucom.mil.