CZECHS WELCOME IRAQI DRAFT CONSTITUTION

UNCLAS PRAGUE 001263 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: IZ EZ PREL PGOV SUBJECT: CZECHS WELCOME IRAQI DRAFT CONSTITUTION REF: STATE 158420 1) In response to reftel issues the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs made the following statement Aug 30: 2) Begin statement: Declaration of the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the Work Towards the Proposed Iraqi Constitution. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic welcomes the draft of the new Iraqi Constitution and its approval by the Presidential Council as a basic step on the road to democracy and prosperity of Iraq, which reflects the interests of its population. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs especially appreciates the fact that, in spite of the difficult conditions, and threats of insurgents, the draft is a result of a democratic discussion among the representatives of all Iraqi communities and political subjects. We believe the continuing democratic discussion within Iraqi society enables the overcoming of divisions and reservations among some representatives, and will bring the political process to a successful conclusion. The next milestone is the referendum on the constituion planned for October 15, 2005. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is convinced that the successful continuation of the political process will improve the security situation and speed Iraq's economic recovery. The Czech Republic is determined to continue to cooperate with the international community in helping Iraq on the path to democracy, stability and economic prosperity. End statement. 3) Additionally, Embassy spokesperson Aug 30 met with two prominent Czech journalists (who specialize in the Iraq conflict) to express U.S. support for the Iraqi constitutional process. MUNTER