Assyrian Democratic Organization ADO
British Prime Minister Tony Blair, on a surprise visit here, said he hoped all Iraqis would take part in next month’s elections, describing the situation in the country as a “battle between democracy and terror.”
“I hope it goes ahead on an inclusive basis,” he said Tuesday at a joint press conference with interim prime minister Iyad Allawi.
But Blair, whose visit was kept secret until his arrival in the Iraqi capital because of security concerns, acknowledged that violence would continue both before and after the January 30 elections.
“There are major problems — but holding the elections will have its own impetus towards greater security,” Blair said.
“I think that everyone understands there will be violence that will continue even after the election… On the other hand we will have a very clear expression of democratic will.”
Blair staunchly defended the
Blair lashed out at those who blame the violence on the US-led forces and not the insurgency, saying the situation was a “battle between democracy and terror.
“The danger people feel here is coming from the terrorists and insurgents who are trying to stop the country from becoming a democracy,” he said. “We stand on the side of the democrats.”
Blair hailed members of
“When I meet the people working alongside the United Nations, Iraqis in fear of their life every day because they are trying too bring freedom and democracy to their people… then I know we are doing the right thing,” Blair said.
“The Iraqi people are going to see it through… Yes I believe we did the right thing.”
For his part, Allawi said: “We are pressing ahead to having the elections on time.
“Our enemies are determined to break our will… we will not allow them to prevail.”
21-12-2004
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