Press release

20-03-03
US and EU must work together to rebuild Iraq - Barrett

John Barrett, Liberal Democrat Spokesman on International Development, following a meeting in Brussels with Poul Nielson, EU Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid said:

"Despite differences over the principle of war, there is clearly an opportunity and a need for the European Union and United States Government to work together in rebuilding Iraq after military conflict ends.

"Any principled dispute between the US and European countries cannot be allowed to affect the delivery of aid. If it does, the only people who will suffer are the Iraqi civilians despite assurances from Tony Blair that his quarrel is not with them."

"After my discussions with Mr Neilson, it is clear the European Union want to distinguish between humanitarian aid and reconstruction. However, the two must go hand in hand. For example, improving the water supply will not just help save millions of lives but will play a small but crucial part in building Iraq into the country we all wish to see."

ENDS