LATVIA SUPPORTS THE U.N. SECURITY COUNCIL'S RESOLUTION
ON THE RESUMPTION OF U.N. INSPECTIONS IN IRAQ

LATVIAN MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

November 8, 2002

On 8 November 2002, the UN Security Council passed unanimously resolution No.1441 on the resumption of UN inspections in Iraq, to ensure implementation of the previous resolutions on Iraq.

All 15 members of the UN Security Council succeeding in making a unanimous decision on an issue so very important for global security. The Security Council has agreed that Iraq has violated, and continues to violate heavily, its obligations pursuant to the resolutions passed earlier.

A unanimous decision is a clear signal for Iraq to agree to co-operation with weapons inspectors, as the Security Council may otherwise adopt new resolutions on this issue.

Latvia fully supports the Security Council resolution, initiated by the United States, as well as previous resolutions on Iraq, which are aimed at ensuring stability and security in the Middle East. Latvia's position was clearly expressed by the Latvian President, Vaira Vike-Freiberga, during her address to the UN General Assembly in September 2002.