Malaysia calls for immediate end to Najaf conflict

Kuala Lumpur (VNA) - Gravely concerned over the escalating violence in Najaf, Iraq, Malaysia on Monday called on all parties involved to stop violence and fully engage in peaceful negotiations to seek an amicable solution.

Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who is on a visit to the Republic of Korea, said it is necessary for the United Nations to act to address the situation in Najaf and end the people’s sufferring there.

The escalating violence was undermining efforts to return to a state of normality throughout Iraq, said Badawi, who is Chairman of the Non-Aligned Movement and also the Organisation of the Islamic Conference.

"If the confrontation in Najaf is not diffused, it will inflame emotions and may create unpredictable conditions. It will also erode the fragile stability in the country and affect the preparations for holding national elections in Iraq scheduled for January 2005," he said in a statement issued through the Foreign Ministry.

The Prime Minister said Malaysia strongly believed that peace and stability was imperative for Iraq to continue with the processes of re-establishing a fully independent and sovereign government in the country.

All efforts should be made to ensure that the people of Iraq will be able to exercise their right in determining the future of their homeland.

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