UNITED NATIONS, May 21 (Xinhua) -- While calling for an inclusive government in Iraq, a South African UN envoy said Tuesday that national reconciliation and unity is vital in avoiding future challenges in Iraq stemming from the fracturing of government policies and actions.
Speaking at the United Nations Security Council meeting on Iraq, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the UN Jerry Matjila said, "South Africa supports the full consolidation of control of the Iraqi army over its territories, and continued support for the efforts of the government to eradicate the threat posed by Da'esh (IS militants)."
South Africa would like to suggest the use of the Peacebuilding Commission to support the inclusive efforts of the government, specifically in institution building and post-conflict and reconstruction development in Iraq, Matjila said.
The UN Security Council on Tuesday unanimously adopted a resolution to extend the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq, or UNAMI, until May 31, 2020.
The 15-nation UN council called on the international community to remain strongly committed to providing support to Iraq for its humanitarian, stabilization, reconstruction and development efforts.
South Africa also welcomes the increased involvement of regional organizations in the political process and reaffirmation of their role in assisting the Government of Iraq in the reconstruction of the country, he said.
South African reiterates its support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq in line with the principles of the UN charter and will continue to support UNAMI in the implementation of its mandate.
UNAMI is a political mission established in 2003 by the Security Council at the request of the government of Iraq.
