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Most differences over US resolution on Iraq sorted out
United Nations, Nov 01: American, British, French and Russian negotiators have sorted out most differences on the tough United States resolution on Iraqi disarmament but they still need to close a small crucial gap on the timing of the use of force and the issue of whether a second resolution was necessary to authorise that.
United Nations, Nov 01: American, British, French and Russian negotiators have sorted out most differences on the tough United States resolution on Iraqi disarmament but they
still need to close a small crucial gap on the timing of the use of force and the issue of whether a second resolution was necessary to authorise that.
Diplomats say Americans are feeling confident that they could count on the support of seven non-permanent members who have reacted favourably to the resolution and are preparing for vote late next week after the US mid-term polls Tuesday. The three veto-wielding permanent members - Russia, France and China - have not threatened to kill the resolution co-sponsored by Britain, though they have strong reservations on some aspects.
If the US is able to get support of seven non-permanent members, it would have enough votes together with itself and Britain to get the resolution through, provided it does not attract a veto. To be adopted, a resolution needs nine votes and no veto. Council diplomats said the gap is small but deep. Still they hope that it would be resolved over next few days. The United States has bowed to the wishes of the other members to wait for military action until chief weapons inspector Hans Blix reports to the council any violation or non-cooperation.
But differences still exist on whether a second resolution would be specifically needed to trigger a military action. Washington has agreed to participate in any debate following any adverse report by Blix but does not want to be "handcuffed" by any specific provision that the second resolution is necessary.
Bureau Report
Diplomats say Americans are feeling confident that they could count on the support of seven non-permanent members who have reacted favourably to the resolution and are preparing for vote late next week after the US mid-term polls Tuesday. The three veto-wielding permanent members - Russia, France and China - have not threatened to kill the resolution co-sponsored by Britain, though they have strong reservations on some aspects.
If the US is able to get support of seven non-permanent members, it would have enough votes together with itself and Britain to get the resolution through, provided it does not attract a veto. To be adopted, a resolution needs nine votes and no veto. Council diplomats said the gap is small but deep. Still they hope that it would be resolved over next few days. The United States has bowed to the wishes of the other members to wait for military action until chief weapons inspector Hans Blix reports to the council any violation or non-cooperation.
But differences still exist on whether a second resolution would be specifically needed to trigger a military action. Washington has agreed to participate in any debate following any adverse report by Blix but does not want to be "handcuffed" by any specific provision that the second resolution is necessary.
Bureau Report