Schröder, Blair Agree on Central Role for UN in Iraq

Meeting to discuss the next steps in the reconstruction and rebuilding of Iraq, Blair and Schröder attempted to put the serious rift over military action against Iraq behind them.

Claiming strong bilateral ties and friendships, the two leaders made clear they were united in their vision for the future for Iraq despite past differences. Both agreed the United Nations had to be the basis for reconstruction and aid as early as possible.

"I am very pleased to be here in Germany with the chancellor who I regard as a good friend. I am also pleased to say that bilateral relations are strong and will remain so," said Blair.

Democracy and security needed swiftly

Blair said that both he and Chancellor Schröder were in strong agreement that the installation of a democratic government in Iraq was vitally important and that progress in humanitarian and security efforts in the country must be implemented as swiftly as possible.

"It is time now to concentrate on the problems arising out of the new situation and to resolve those problems," said Schröder. "It is no secret that Germany wants the rebuilding to come from U.N."

Blair admitted the process to fully involve the United Nations would be problematic but said: "There is an agreement that, in principle, the UN must have a key role."

German participation

One question arising from the summit was the level of German involvement in the reconstruction and rebuilding of Iraq. Having refused to participate in military action, pressure to take a role in postwar Iraq is beginning to build on those countries who opted out and protested against the war.

Gaining popularity for his stance on the war, Schröder is now facing concern from German companies that fear they will miss out on lucrative contracts when rebuilding begins in Iraq.

Before the meeting, a spokesman for the British government said that Blair wanted to hear specifically what contribution Germany could make.

"What we want to hear is how Germany views that process and how Germany can help in that process," he said.