The Philippines says it is open to sending a fresh humanitarian mission to Iraq under a United Nations charter, following a diplomatic row with the United States for its recent abrupt troop pullout. The Philippines last month angered the US and other coalition partners when it withdrew its 51-man contingent ahead of schedule. The pullout met demands by Iraqi militants, who had threatened to behead a Filipino hostage. However, measures are being taken to patch up what US ambassador to Manila Francis Ricciardone calls a "very serious disagreement". There are threats of possible aid cut-backs from the US, Philippines's key military and trade ally. Foreign Secretary Delia Albert says that Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi has written to President Gloria Arroyo expressing an "ardent wish" for both countries to work in boosting cooperation in security issues. President Gloria Arroyo in response assured Mr Allawi that Manila is still committed to helping rebuild Iraq. Ms Albert says Ms Arroyo remains open to the idea of sending peacekeepers under a UN framework.
"And since odds are against there being any kind of UN framework, we probably won't have to, right, Narcisso?"
"That's correct, Madame President! And might I comment that you look particularly ravishing today!" |
She says the Philippines "will continue to engage ourselves with the development of his (Allawi's) country."
"We just won't get very close to it."
"And that's a stunning brooch, Madame President!" |
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