Franco Frattini and Kamal Kharrazi, the Foreign Ministers of Italy and the Islamic Republic, called for the immediate and effective transfer of power in Iraq to the people of that country in a joint statement. This statement, released at the end of their meeting today in Rome, also highlighted their agreement on giving a more significant role to the United Nations in Iraq. Furthermore, the Foreign Ministers of Italy and the Islamic Republic emphasized the importance of broader consultations with Middle Eastern countries interested in stabilizing the situation in Iraq. The statement did not mention the issue of three Italian hostages held in Iraq, but political observers noted that Italy has requested assistance from the Islamic Republic to facilitate the release of these three individuals. Kamal Kharrazi, who is on the beginning of his European trip, also met with Silvio Berlusconi, the President of Italy, yesterday.
Joint Statement by the Foreign Ministers of Italy and Iran Regarding Iraq - 2004-04-19
The Foreign Ministers of Italy and Iran issued a joint statement advocating for the immediate transfer of power in Iraq to its citizens and a greater role for the UN in the region. They emphasized the need for consultations with Middle Eastern countries to stabilize Iraq, while also addressing the issue of Italian hostages indirectly. This matters as it reflects Iran's involvement in regional politics and its relations with European nations.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The Foreign Ministers of Italy and Iran issued a joint statement calling for the transfer of power in Iraq to its citizens and a greater role for the UN in stabilizing the region. They also emphasized the need for consultations with other Middle Eastern countries.
- The statement was made during a meeting in Rome.
- Italy has requested Iran's assistance in securing the release of three Italian hostages in Iraq.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Following the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, the country faced significant instability, prompting international calls for a transition to Iraqi governance and increased UN involvement.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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