Maliki to Ashton: Arming Syrian opposition to negatively affect region

Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) The Premier, Nouri al-Maliki, discussed with the Representative of the European Union, Katherine Ashton, the situation in Iraq and the Syrian crisis.

A statement by Maliki’s office received by IraqiNews.com cited “Maliki, while receiving Ashton at his office in Baghdad, assured that the relations of Iraq with the countries of the European Union are deep-rooted where we aim at developing them,” noting that “The Iraqi government approves the Cooperation Pact with the European Union.”

Maliki assured the Iraqi stance over “Rejecting using the military force to settle the Syrian crisis,” assuring that “Iraq, since the beginning of the crisis, called to adhere to the political settlement and dialogue in addition not to interfere in the Syrian situation.”

“Arming the Syrian opposition to destroy Syria and negatively affect the region especially the neighboring countries to Syria,” he added, assuring “The support of Iraq for holding Geneva 2 Conference to achieve a settlement for this crisis.”

According to the statement, Ashton assured that “The relations of the European Union with Iraq are developing and in all fields,” appreciating “The success of Iraq in settling the pending issues with Kuwait,” congratulating “Maliki over this issue.”

She also appreciated Maliki’s efforts to settle the interior issues, saying that “We appreciate bringing the various views closer,” describing Geneva 2 as “A chance to achieve a peaceful settlement to the Syrian crisis.”