U.N. Secretary General replies to Deputy Prime Minister Dr. George Vella

10 March 1998

Excellency,

I would like to thank you for your Government's expression of support for my recent mission to Iraq.

The Memorandum of Understanding signed in Baghdad lays the foundation for the implementation of all relevant Security Council resolutions, fully and without conditions, so that the United Nations can continue its vital work of disarmament and verification.

As I stated upon arriving in Baghdad, I have a duty under the Charter of the United Nations to try and reduce international tensions wherever I can. Fortunately, thanks to the support of the Member States, the mission resulted in a diplomatic resolution, averting the threat of war.

This is a success for our United Nations. Let us now build on it, not only in Iraq but across our diverse and urgent agenda.

Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Kofi A. Annan

His Excellency

The Hon. Dr. George Vella

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for

Foreign Affairs and the Environment of Malta

Valletta