Brussels, 16/10/2003 (Agence Europe) - Germany, France and Russia announced on Thursday that they agreed, at the United Nations, to vote in favour of the new United States' resolution on Iraq, but that they would not provide financial or military aid. Their representatives will present a "joint explanation of vote" during adoption of the resolution. The decision was taken midday Thursday, with Gerhard Schröder and Jacques Chirac eclipsing from the European Council meeting to address Vladimir Putin by video-conference.
The resolution "is a step in the right direction", French Foreign Minister Dominique de Villepin told the press conference. He sees this as a powerful message to Iraq whereby the international community is willing to assume its responsibilities. He nonetheless considers that "this step must be followed by others". The German Chancellor told the press, however, that he welcomed the fact that a large part of what Russia, France and Germany were asking has been taken into account. Like President Chirac, Gerhard Schröder was, however, not pleased with the situation on the ground and considers that the progress noted is not an appropriate response.
Last Monday, at the External Relations Council, the Fifteen agreed on a Community contribution to the reconstruction of Iraq amounting to EUR 200 million (see EUROPE of 14 October, p.15).