Remarks at the Opening Session of the International Conference on Iraq
Secretary Condoleezza Rice
Brussels, Belgium
June 22, 2005
Thank you very much, Foreign Minister Asselborn, for that kind introduction. Prime Minister Ja'afari, Secretary General
Annan, Foreign Minister Zebari, Ladies and Gentlemen: On behalf of President Bush, I am pleased to join you as we open
this very important conference on Iraq.
Over 80 nations have gathered at the request of the Iraqi Transitional Government. We have agreed to work together to
build a renewed international partnership with Iraq. And we look forward to hearing Iraq's new leaders describe their
vision for the free future of their country.
In just one year, the citizens of Iraq have begun an unprecedented political journey -- a journey as hopeful as it is
difficult. In the face of terror, the overwhelming majority of Iraqis are displaying tremendous courage and making
remarkable progress. They regained their sovereignty. Then despite signs saying, "Vote and you die" eight and half
million men and women participated in Iraq's free elections. Now, they are writing a constitution. The brave people of
Iraq are asking us to stand with them -- and they deserve our full support.
So today in Brussels, we begin a new conversation between the international community and the democratic government of
a free Iraq. This partnership will support the Iraqi government along three important fronts: political reform, economic
reconstruction, and strengthening security with the rule of law. We all recognize our obligation to help Iraq fulfill
the promise of its democratic transformation. Iraq's neighbors -- Syria, in particular -- must secure their borders from
those who seek to destroy Iraq's progress. And all countries must deliver the material support they have already pledged
to the government of Iraq. Iraq, in turn, has obligations of its own. To maximize the financial benefits of assistance,
the new Iraqi government must continue to improve security, liberalize its economy, and open political space for all
members of Iraqi society who reject violence. Building the institutions of democracy is essential to Iraq's long-term
success.
The Iraqis themselves will set the course of Iraq's future. But they will not bear the weight of their responsibilities
alone. Iraq has many allies in the international community, as we are demonstrating that with this remarkable gathering
here today. So let us move forward together, toward the goals of freedom and democracy that we all share.
I would now like to welcome my colleague to the stage United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan. 2005/T10-19
Released on June 22, 2005
ENDS