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UN chief assures Iraq of post-war stability

United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres during his speech at the "Kuwait International Conference for Reconstruction of Iraq,"
United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres during his speech at the "Kuwait International Conference for Reconstruction of Iraq,"

KUWAIT, Feb 14 (KUNA) -- United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday underscored the scope of devestation that the war in Iraq has caused, saying the UN is firmly committed to the reconstruction process in Baghdad.
In his speech at the "Kuwait International Conference for Reconstruction of Iraq," he congratulated the war-torn nation on its military victory over the so-called Islamic State (IS).
He went on to say that forthcoming elections in Iraq are crucial to ensure that stability is restored to the country. 

Guterres spoke of the "daunting task to rebuild a new Iraq and assist its government to ensure a unified nation." He urged the international community to deliver comprehensive aid to his country, saying that UN development programs should buoy anti-terrorism efforts and focus on human rights.
The UN Secretary General highlighted the need for an "all-inclusive reconciliation process", calling on Iraqi authorities to abide by UN Resolution 1325, which addresses the impacts of armed conflicts on women.
On the reconciliation process in Iraq, Guterres said it should guarantee Iraqis of all sects equal opportunities. (end) sss.amn.mab.nam