Barham Salih (Nov 2006)

Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Barham Salih says it is in the interest of Iraq's neighbors and the international community to help in the stabilization of Iraq.

Salih said in an interview with VOA Kurdish service that a security meeting next week in Baghdad is aimed at creating a regional and international framework that will support Iraq's stabilization and political transition.

The March 10 security meeting is to include Iraq's neighbors and the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council.

Salih told VOA that it is time for Iraq's neighbors to work with the Iraqi government and the international community to ensure the country is stabilized.

He said Iraq should not be a domain of conflict and competition He said the country's stability is in the common interest of the people of Iraq, the region and the larger international community.

On another subject, Salih praised a new draft oil law as a measure that establishes the basis for oil to become a unifier for all Iraqi people, and for oil wealth to be shared among all Iraqis, regardless of their background or region.

Salih says he hopes parliament endorses the draft law. The Iraqi cabinet approved the measure Monday.