Iraqi Foreign Minister Urges EU to Take Active Role in Ending War

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein has called on the European Union to assume a more active role in ending the ongoing war. Hussein announced that Iraq will present a comprehensive initiative to stop the conflict during an Arab-European meeting scheduled for this month in Amman. During a telephone conversation with Irish Foreign Minister Helen McEntee, Hussein stated that the war is directly impacting Iraq's economy and trade routes. He noted that the conflict has negatively affected global inflation and oil markets. Hussein urged the EU to move beyond its role as an observer and take the initiative. He added that he has also exchanged views with the Dutch Foreign Minister and will continue diplomatic efforts to establish a joint international initiative.