STATEMENT BY JOSCHKA FISCHER
GERMAN FEDERAL FOREIGN MINISTER

GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTRY

November 8, 2002

"The Federal Government welcomes the unanimous decision taken by the United Nations Security Council. On the basis of the Charter of the United Nations and the principles of international law, the international community has confronted Iraq with its responsibility. Germany supports the aim of the resolution which commits Iraq to cooperate with the weapons inspectors efficiently and without restriction.

The resolution is a clear signal to Baghdad. Saddam Hussein must recognize what grave consequences non-compliance with this resolution would have. Iraq now has the chance to engage in comprehensive and unconditional cooperation with the UN inspectors to secure peace and stability in the region.

The UN inspectors led by Hans Blix now have to return to Baghdad at the earliest opportunity to recommence their work. The Federal Government will continue to support UNMOVIC in its important task."