Baghdad-6 July 2006— Upon the invitation of the Government of Iraq, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mark Malloch-Brown visited Baghdad on the 5th and 6th of July.  He held consultations with the Iraqi Government regarding its initiative for a new partnership with the international community – the International Compact for Iraq. The purpose of the Compact is to achieve a National Vision for Iraq which aims to consolidate peace and pursue political, economic and social development over the next 5 years.  The primary focus will be to build a framework for Iraq’s economic transformation and integration into the regional and global economy.

During his visit Mr Malloch-Brown met with (his Excellency President Talibani), Vice Presidents Adel Abdel Mahdi and Tariq Al-Hashimi, Prime Minister Nouri Al Maliki, Deputy Prime Minister Dr Barham Salih, and a host of key Iraqi political leaders and members of the international donor community.

Discussions focused on the Government of Iraq’s establishment of a Preparatory Group which it will co-chair with the United Nations.  This Group will assist with preparations for the Compact and will be strongly supported by the World Bank in coordination with the IMF and other regional financial institutions.  It will include key members of the international donor community.  The Preparatory group will report directly to Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Barham Saleh and the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.

The Government of Iraq regards the international compact as a critical process for the country’s future development. The visit of the Deputy Secretary-General emphasized the strong support of the United Nations for the Compact as announced by the United Nations Secretary-General Mr. Kofi Annan on the 16th of June. The Compact will build on the achievements of the Iraqi people and provide an opportunity to develop a broader international consensus of support and engagement with Iraq to bring about its economic transformation and realize its best economic potential for the sake, wellbeing and prosperity of the Iraqi people.