For Immediate Release
February 27, 2004

Global Message

From remarks by US Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Negroponte on the Implementation of UNSCR 1483, 2/24/04

The Transitional Administrative Law is nearly complete and will govern Iraq during the period of transition to full democracy.

Iraqis are working with each other and the international community to map their own way forward politically.

The number of Iraqis contributing to the security effort has virtually doubled in the last three months and is increasing every day.

Saddam Hussein will undergo due process for crimes committed against the Iraqi people.

After decades of oppression, the Iraqi people are asserting their own vision for Iraq. They are assuming greater responsibility for security, managing their natural resources for the benefit of all, and taking the first steps towards representative democracy.

The international community understands what is at stake in this struggle. Many nations have stepped forward to assist in the rebirth of Iraq with: -humanitarian assistance; -economic assistance; -debt relief; -diplomatic support; -expert assistance and training; and -multinational force contributions.

The Iraqi people, the United Nations, and the Coalition all support the transfer of sovereignty by June 30, as well as direct national elections as soon as practical thereafter.