EU Presidency statement on UNSCR 1441 (Iraq)

The European Union welcomes the adoption of Security Council Resolution 1441 of 8 November 2002 and the fact that the resolution was passed unanimously. With the passing of the new resolution, the Security Council has asserted its role and responsibility in maintaining international peace and security.

The resolution is an important step towards the elimination of Iraq's weapons of mass destruction. The European Union urges Iraq to accept immediately UNSCR Resolution 1441 and to comply unconditionally with all the provisions of the resolution. This is Iraq's last opportunity to fulfill its disarmament obligations. The European Union urges Iraq to extend full cooperation to the weapons inspectors and to secure immediate, unimpeded and unrestricted access for the weapons inspectors to all areas and facilities in Iraq.

The European Union expresses its full confidence in and support for Dr. Hans Blix of UNMOVIC and Dr. El Baradei of IAEA in the performance of their duties.

The European Union also expresses its support for the Security Council in its continued handling of this matter.

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• UN Resolution on Iraq (8/11/2002)
• Speech by Commissioner Patten on Iraq (9/10/2002)