Brussels, 20/09/2005 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday, in New York (on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly), the EU and Iraq will be signing a joint political declaration that they “share the same goal of a secure, stable, unified, prosperous and democratic Iraq, where human rights are protected”. Both sides will also restate their commitment to hold a political dialogue in areas of mutual interest at ministerial and senior official level. The political dialogue will also cover the political transition process in Iraq, the promotion of good governance, protection of human rights, rule of law and democracy, non-proliferation and counter-terrorism, conflict prevention and resolution, as well as cultural issues. “The signing of this declaration will be a major step towards closer partnership between Europe and Iraq. It will pave the way for a Cooperation Agreement between us to cover a wide range of trade and development issues”, the Commissioner for External Relations, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, commented. She also confirmed that the preparations with a view to opening a European Commission delegation in Baghdad are now underway.