The members of the United Nation (UN)’s Security Council have listened to a preliminary assessment of the humanitarian situation in Iraq and takes note that while there is not a critical situation at present, there still remains the danger of such.
According to the Deputy Secretary-General, Louise Fréchette the UN’s flash appeal launched on 28 March, with a total requirement of $2.2 billion, already has pledges for $1.2 billion.
Members of the Council expressed concern regarding access of relief assistance to the Iraqi population. Following adoption of resolution 1472 (2003), immediate measures have been taken for the prioritization of contracts and the coordination with neighboring countries to establish alternative ports of delivery.
While Fréchette indicated that there are still 3,000 national UN staff on the ground and that deliveries are being carried out on a pragmatic basis, the Security Council stressed the coordinating role of the Secretary-General. — (menareport.com)
© 2003 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
