ZAGREB, Feb 6 (Hina) - Before a decision is made on the use of force against Iraq, one must be certain that absolutely all other means of implementing provisions of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1441 have been exhausted, Croatian
President Stjepan Mesic said in his address to the public on Thursday, commenting on Croatia's support to the anti-terrorist coalition.
ZAGREB, Feb 6 (Hina) - Before a decision is made on the use of force
against Iraq, one must be certain that absolutely all other means of
implementing provisions of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1441
have been exhausted, Croatian President Stjepan Mesic said in his
address to the public on Thursday, commenting on Croatia's support
to the anti-terrorist coalition. #L#
"At the U.N. Security Council session the U.S. secretary of defence
presented numerous information in the context of the Iraqi crisis
and the possibility of Iraq being connected with international
terrorism. A part of the information could be categorised as
evidence, while the other part are solid indications. Both lead to
the conclusion that the regime in Baghdad is not fully cooperating
with United Nations' inspectors, thus violating provisions of
Security Council Resolution 1441 of last November, which
stipulates the disarmament of Iraq in the context of its possessing
weapons of mass destruction," Mesic said.
He recalled that he had earlier expressed support to the creation
and functioning of a global anti-terrorist coalition, and had
warned about the dangers of weapons of mass destruction which
should be placed under international control or be destroyed.
The president said that such stances were in the interest of Croatia
and all its citizens because international terrorism and weapons of
mass destruction posed a true danger for all.
"I also reiterate that alongside concrete actions aimed at
suppressing global terrorism, one should declare a long-lasting
war against its roots. I also believe it necessary to once again
repeat the unavoidable position and role of the United Nations both
in the fight against international terrorism and in efforts to
find, place under control or, if this proves to be the only
solution, destroy weapons of mass destruction," said the
president.
The authorities in Baghdad must unequivocally prove that they are
completely cooperating with U.N. inspectors and answer questions
which are imposed by information presented by the United States
before the Security Council, Mesic said.
"Negation is not an answer which can satisfy the international
community. Inspectors should be enabled to continue with their work
-- not infinitely, of course," Mesic said.
Recalling Croatia's experience in war, which has made it appreciate
peace, Mesic said, "If a fight for peace and security is imposed on
the free world, Croatia will know its role. However, I believe that
at this time peace still has a chance. It should be given one".
(hina) lml sb