Скачать или смотреть IRAQ: BAGHDAD: UN CHIEF WEAPONS INSPECTOR RICHARD BUTLER VISIT

(25 Jul 1997) English/Nat

The UN chief weapons inspector has said a new spirit of co-operation between Iraq and the United Nations could soon lead to a reduction in Iraq's stockpiles of chemical and biological weapons.

Richard Butler made the comments on Thursday during his first visit to Iraq since taking over the post this month.

Butler's visit follows tension between the United Nations and Iraq.

Last month, the Security Council adopted a new resolution that gave Iraq until October to co-operate with the UN weapons inspectors or face stronger measures.

Richard Butler is in charge of the UN Special Commission or UNSCOM assigned to oversee the dismantling of Iraq's weapons of mass destruction.

The Security Council has demanded that Iraq fully co-operate with the arms monitors before it will consider lifting sanctions imposed on Baghdad following the invasion of Kuwait.

Butler had promised to discuss UN suspicions that Iraq is hiding components of its chemical and biological weapons programs.

He arrived on Monday and met Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Tariq Aziz.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"I'm very pleased with this visit to Baghdad. I've had good talks with senior officials of the Iraqi government led by Deputy Prime Minister Tariq Aziz. I detect a determination to get through the disarmament process of UNSCOM as soon as possible. I share that view and so I am very encouraged."
Q: How do you see the future progress between Iraq and the special committee?
A: "As I've said I'm encouraged. It's a difficult task, but there is a new spirit of cooperation now and if we work together and as hard as possible, I think we can get there soon."
SUPER CAPTION: Richard Butler, UN chief weapons inspector

Butler has said he expects to see results on arms reduction within three or four weeks.

In June, the Security Council adopted a new resolution that gave Iraq until October to co- operate with UN weapons inspectors or face stronger measures.

The UN sanctions on Iraq block it from selling oil, its main product.

Last December, the Security Council approved limited oil sales to allow Baghdad to buy food and medicine.

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