France says any conference on Iraq must discuss possible US withdrawal

[Judi Lynn]

France says any conference on Iraq must discuss possible US withdrawal

www.chinaview.cn 2004-09-27 15:59:52


PARIS, Sept. 27 (Xinhuanet) -- French Foreign Minister Michel Barnier said Monday that any international conference on Iraq should discuss the issue of the withdrawal of the US-led forces in the country.

"It is an issue which should be on the agenda of such a conference, if we want to hold it," Barnier told the state-owned France Inter radio station in response to a proposal by US Secretary of State Colin Powell.

Powell on Sunday suggested the international community hold a conference on the situation in Iraq, adding that it could take place in October, just before the US presidential elections.

Described the situation in Iraq as a "black hole", Barnier said the situation in Iraq already raised the question of the US withdrawal.
(snip/...)

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2004-09/27/content_2029065.htm

[enki23]

1. oh god, don't throw us into "that" briar patch

please, please, please...

[TaleWgnDg]

2. pass the French fries, please . . .

. . . . . . . .

edited to add the political cartoon "Iraqi Exit Strategy"

[Voltaire99]

3. The US won't leave. See the current issue of Harper's Magazine...

...for a close-up view of a US "rebuilding Iraq" contracts fair hosted by the Pentagon in June. Illuminating and revolting.

Iraq, as was argued compellingly by George Monbiot last year, represents a vast new American market: the invasion was not merely for oil, water, and the comfort of Tel Aviv, but to open new markets for the stagnating US economy.

[JPace]

6. The terrorists can blow it all up a lot faster

than we can build it. Its a lose lose proposition
to stay there.

[BootinUp]

4. Sure, a little sorry statemanship right before the election.

This'll fire up the fundie base again. Go Cheney yourself Powell.

Rove is a brilliant m*therf*cker though.

[aneerkoinos]

5. Poor Powell

Another bitch-slap on his face.

Notice also that France demands that also the Iraqi armed resistance groups take part in the conference.

France is right, of course, as usual. That is the only way. Inclusive negotiations where US gives promise and time-table for withdrawal for exchange of cease-fire with resistance, allowing the access of UN election staff in all of the country, protected by French troops.

Best that US can hope for. Will it take the chance? When Hell freezes! :(

[htuttle]

7. Chirac announces he's got a full house

Time to show 'em George. Don't bother bluffing -- everyone has learned your 'tells'.