Powell Calls for Support to Iraq in Last NATO Meeting

Powell clearly expressed America’s desire to repair its damaged relations with Europe and expects a European reply to Washington’s new approach on the issue. Powell said he is aware that some key decisions made by US President George W. Bush over the last four years have been controversial in Europe, especially the ones regarding Iraq. He asked, however, that past differences remain in the past and that they now look forward. Powell submitted a demand for more NATO troops to be stationed in both Afghanistan and Iraq at the meeting. Ministers attending the NATO meeting reportedly applauded Powell for several moments. Condoleezza Rice will replace Powell when his resignation takes effect.

The Ministers decided to enlarge the Alliance’s training mission in Iraq. NATO Secretary-General Jaap De Hoop Scheffer said the number of personnel working on this mission will be increased from 60 to 300. De Hoop Scheffer noted that several NATO allies, including Poland, Hungary and the Netherlands, want to increase contributions to the number of troops.

US President Bush’s plan to visit Europe in February has been confirmed and NATO sources report that the Alliance may hold a summit during this visit. Bush announced that he wants to strengthen America’s relationship with NATO and the European Union (EU), which has become tense over Iraq.