20/12/2012 (Agence Europe) - Ashton condemns attacks in several Iraqi towns. On 19 December, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton condemned “in the strongest terms” the latest series of attacks in a number of Iraqi towns, including Iraq's disputed territories. She hoped that “such senseless use of violence will not aggravate the existing tensions in the disputed territories”, her spokesperson said. Ashton is confident that the Iraqi people will remain steadfast in their continued rejection of attempts by extremists to undermine the security and stability of Iraq, the spokesperson added. Ashton also reiterated her call on the government and on all Iraqi leaders to engage in an inclusive and genuine dialogue to address political differences, including on the disputed territories, and added that effective and inclusive governance offers the best chance of defying the violence. (CG/transl.fl)