Equal neutrality in disputed areas – UNAMI

KIRKUK / IraqiNews.com: The head of UNAMI delegation in Iraq Razia Ashori said that the work of the mission depends on “equal neutrality, not standing with this part against the other.”  These statements follow others voiced by the Arab Project Trend demanding the UN Secretary General Pan ki Moon to close UNAMI offices in Kirkuk in what they described as “selective” attitudes in dealing with the Arabs in the province.  Ashori stated to IraqiNews.com that “the UN mission role is to help Iraqi government and people, when such assistance is requested.”   “Our work, all over the world, depends on neutrality, so we do not take sides, but deal with them with same footing when they demand our assistance,” she confirmed.  On the evaluation of the situation in Kirkuk she added, “we are concerned with the disputed areas , particularly Kirkuk, due to their importance, in general.”   “Mr. Ed Melkert provided us with his evaluation for these areas, more than one time, but there are some positive indications. Our concern, as the United Nations, is to be a neutral helper for all concerned parties in Kirkuk and its relation with the central government to find tangible solutions for all pending questions,” she elaborated.  She confirmed that these questions cannon be solved only by the Iraqis and cannot be made without the great role of the local elements in Kirkuk itself.” RM (TI)/SR 656