Brussels, 08/12/2009 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 8 December, EU foreign ministers called on the Iraqi authorities to implement the new electoral law approved as soon as possible, so that the general elections may be held, as planned, in “early 2010”. Just as a bloody attack killed nearly 100 people in Baghdad on Tuesday morning, the Foreign Affairs Council stressed, in conclusions, how important it was that the election should be held according to schedule and unfold in a peaceful, orderly and democratic manner. “These elections are an important opportunity for further consolidation of democratic institutions as well as for enhancing security in the country”, the conclusions read. The EU is ready to provide support for these elections, including by sending a stronger team of electoral experts, and by deploying EU diplomatic missions. The Council also welcomes the outcome of negotiations on 13 November in respect of an EU-Iraq partnership and cooperation agreement, and reaffirms its will to sign the memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the energy sector. The EU27 point out that the human rights situation in Iraq continues to cause concern, and underline that it is up to Iraq to ensure that human rights are respected. In this context, the EU renews its plea to the Iraqi government to suspend application of the death penalty. (H.B./transl.jl)