Iraq: “not ready ”for troop withdrawal

Source: CCTV.com

09-25-2006 14:15

Iraqi leader Jalal Talabani says there are NO weapons of mass destruction in his country. And he called for the withdrawal of the UN nuclear inspection team in Iraq. He made the remarks while addressing the UN General Assembly on Friday. Talabani also said the process of building security forces in Iraq has made progress. But that it's still too early to consider the withdrawal of foreign troops.

Iraq's president, Jalal Talabani, says the U.N. has confirmed that there are NO weapons of mass destruction in the country. And he is now appealing to the U.N.... to end this investigation... in Iraq.

Iraqi president said, "Taking this fact into account and in respect for our country's interests, we urge the Security Council of the United Nations to dissolve UNMOVIC. And to decommission it or transform it into an international commission or institution connected to the Untied Nations. And have it funded by the ordinary budget of the organization."

Regarding the security of the country, Talabani said the government was committed to a national reconciliation plan. And that the aim is to provide necessary protection and conditions... to ensure security for the Iraqi people.

At the same time, he said efforts to build the Iraqi armed forces were making progress. But the forces were not yet competent enough to deal with the current situation in Iraq.

Talabani says it is still too soon to consider a withdrawal of troops at this time. And that when the withdrawal begins, it should be gradual.

U.S.-led coalition forces have occupied Iraq since its invasion in March, 2003.

Editor:Sun Luying