Brussels, 16/04/2007 (Agence Europe) - The EU and Iraq are due to open formal talks within the next two months for concluding a trade and cooperation agreement that should “help the country integrate the global economy”, EUROPE has learned from an Iraqi source. It is believed that a provisional date has already been set but, when all is said and done, all will depend on how the situation in the country develops, the same source points out. This upcoming opening of talks over coming months has already been preceded by a political meeting, held on 22 November in Brussels, between Vice Prime Minister Baram Saleh and Commissioners Peter Mandelson (trade) and Benita Ferrero-Waldner (external relations). Talks will cover trade, especially of goods and services, but will also deal with issues such as combating poverty, protecting the environment and education. Human rights issues, counter-terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction will also be tackled, European sources say. The Union's essential goal is to back reforms in the country. This will be the subject of the first agreement between the European Union and Iraq. (fb)