Chirac met Khaddam and received a message from Assad

publisher: المستقبل

Publishing date: 2003-05-14

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French President Jacques Chirac expressed deep concern about the deterioration of the situation in Iraq and hoped that the anticipated transfer of power to the Iraqis on June 30 would bring about a substantial change.

The situation in Iraq was the main focus of discussions lasting nearly one hour between President Chirac and Syrian Vice President Abdel Halim Khaddam, who conveyed a message from Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad.

After the meeting at the Elysee Palace, Khaddam did not provide a statement but simply informed reporters that he had discussed everything with Chirac.

The Elysee Palace stated that Chirac regarded the deteriorating situation as a matter of great concern, further reinforcing his belief in the necessity of taking all possible measures to ensure the success of the June 30 deadline and to bring about a genuine transformation.

Sources close to the Elysee Palace revealed that the talks between Chirac and Khaddam encompassed various issues, but the urgent situation in Iraq took precedence. They also indicated that the French president emphasized the importance of a successful June 30 deadline, which entails the transfer of authority from the Americans to the Iraqis. However, several questions arise regarding the process and its execution, including how the powers will be transferred, whether it will be done on time, who will assume authority, and the extent of the powers Washington will grant to the Iraqis, whether comprehensive or fragmented.

The sources emphasized that these natural and legitimate questions align with France’s firm stance, which advocates for the complete transfer of sovereignty to the Iraqis. They underscored the international community’s role in supporting Iraq in this endeavor.

Concerning the current situation in Iraq, particularly in the south, sources close to the Elysee dismissed its comparison to an “Intifada.” They clarified that the current presence of American forces would not be considered an occupation if a United Nations resolution were issued, making the American forces part of an international contingent affiliated with the United Nations.

Regarding Muqtada Al-Sadr, French circles pondered his reasonableness. In response to a question, they questioned why the Americans had instigated a conflict by stirring up the beehive, especially concerning the assassination of Mr. Abdul Majeed Al-Khoei.

The comments from the Elysee Palace reveal evident concern that Mr. Al-Sadr’s actions might jeopardize the hopes pinned on the Americans to fulfill their commitment to transferring sovereignty to the Iraqis as scheduled on June 30.

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