Brussels, 07/11/2005 (Agence Europe) - On Monday, the Council of the EU adopted conclusions on Iraq, launching an urgent appeal to the neighbour countries of Iraq and other countries of the region to re-establish diplomatic relations with Iraq "at the earliest possible opportunity". The Council also urges the countries of the region, "the neighbouring countries in particular, to support the political process in Iraq" and to cooperate with the Iraqi authorities to prevent cross-border transit and support for terrorists active in Iraq. The elections planned for December will be very important for the continuing political process in Iraq, and the Council calls upon all Iraqis to take part in it. The EU will support the monitoring of these elections, and lend its support to local observers, the conclusions confirmed. The ministers welcomed the improved situation for human rights since the fall of Saddam Hussein and stressed the importance of full respect for human rights in today's Iraq. On this subject, the Council reiterates the "strong opposition" of the EU to the death penalty and "notes with concern" recent reports (including UN reports) on infringement of human rights committed by the Iraqi security forces. The interim Iraqi government must verify and "address in a decisive and transparent manner" all allegations of human rights violations. The EU is prepared to help the government to do this. The Council also stresses the importance of creating favourable socio-economic conditions in Iraq, which will be of benefit to all Iraqis. To this end, the EU welcomes the fact that the process of Iraq's accession to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) is underway; it will also continue to work towards the conclusion of a trade and cooperation agreement with Iraq, the conclusions state. The Council also welcomes the referendum of 15 October on the Iraqi Constitution, which marked an important stage in the political transition process of the country and an extra step by the Iraqi people towards democracy, liberty and peace, the foreign affairs ministers state. Although a large majority of the electorate voted in favour of the Constitution, the results of the referendum show that "substantial divisions" remain within the population, and these must be overcome, the Council underlines. The EU is prepared actively to support the Iraqi government to forge a broader consensus and to set in place an "inclusive political system" on the future of the country. The EU also welcomed the suggestion by the Arab League to hold a national conference on dialogue in Iraq. Jack Straw, President of the Council, told the press that the "General Affairs/External Relations" Council of 21 November will hold a "detailed debate" on Iraq.