STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER

November 8, 2002
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today issued this statement on the news of the unanimous passage of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1441 on Iraq :

"Canada welcomes the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1441 on Iraq and the decision to have inspectors return to Iraq. This is a key and constructive step by the international community and the United Nations to address the threat of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq.

Canada has long advocated the adoption of a resolution that spells out clearly what is expected of Iraq, both in terms of its international obligations and the consequences of continued Iraqi non-compliance. We are very pleased to see the Security Council speaking with one voice as well as the international community's commitment to work together to address this serious issue. This is what Canada has been working for.

The onus is now on Iraq to meet its international obligations. The adoption of this resolution affords Iraq a final opportunity to comply. We call upon Iraq to fulfill its responsibilities without condition or delay. Failing that, the Security Council will reconvene immediately to consider the situation and the need to secure international peace and security."

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