Schroeder Calls for More Arab Support for Iraq

UNCLAS FRANKFURT 008667 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL PINR PTER GM IZ SUBJECT: Schroeder Calls for More Arab Support for Iraq ¶1. SUMMARY: In widely-publicized remarks at the Frankfurt Book Fair -- dedicated this year to the Arab world -- German Chancellor Schroeder reiterated German support for the war on terror and for stability in Iraq, calling on Arab states (specifically the Arab League) to take a more active role in Iraq. END SUMMARY. UNITED AGAINST TERROR -------------- ¶2. At the opening ceremony of the Frankfurt book fair October 5 -- where the "Arab World" is this year's guest of honor -- chancellor Gerhard Schroeder spoke about the West's approach to terrorism, the Arab world, and Iraq. He said terrorist attacks are a "call to battle" for the civilized world and one of the greatest threats to the international community, but noone should equate the war against terror with a "clash of civilizations." Schroeder emphasized that economic development and human rights are key elements to counter the terrorist threat in the Muslim world. He declared that the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians can only be solved politically and not militarily. ARAB STATES SHOULD DO MORE ON IRAQ -------------- ¶3. On Iraq, Schroeder said: "In Iraq, the security and stability of the whole region are at stake. Germany will continue to contribute to the stabilization and reconstruction of Iraq. When evaluating the conflict, the focus should not be on "who was right" -- this question is already part of history, though an important one -- but rather on our common responsibility for stability and democracy in the region. This can only be realized when we are able to bring peace to Iraq. In cooperation with the United Arab Emirates, we are training Iraqi police and military personnel ... to enable the people of Iraq to guarantee safety and security. I believe only in this way can the conflict be solved. But Arab states must also use their traditionally close relations with the Iraqi people to enable peace and guarantee economic development .... I think the Arab League has in this respect a very important role to play." NOTE: Arab League Secretary General Amre Moussa was present at the ceremony, but spoke primarily on cultural issues. END NOTE. BODDE