PRESS RELEASE

Regarding Adoption of UNSC Resolution Extending UN Humanitarian Program for Iraq

RUSSIAN MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

December 5, 2002

On December 4 the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1447, by which it extends for another six months the UN humanitarian program for Iraq. Furthermore, it is envisaged that within a month the Council will consider necessary amendments to the so-called Goods Review List and procedures for its application.

An interrupted continuation is thus ensured of the "oil-for-food" program, designed to alleviate the humanitarian situation in Iraq.

Noting with satisfaction the fact of the program's extension, Moscow reaffirms its principled stand that this program is but a temporary measure to supply the vital needs of the Iraqi population for the period till Baghdad complies with relevant UN Security Council resolutions. The resumed international inspection activity in Iraq is opening the way for this, as in case of proper cooperation by Iraqi authorities it will subsequently permit suspending and then lifting the sanctions operating since 1990.