MUSCAT, 7 June 2004 — Last week Iraq witnessed a significant national event that is a turning point in its history: Ghazi Al Yawar was sworn in as the first president of postwar Iraq. A new government has been appointed to run the affairs of the state in this sensitive period.
Those moments were, undoubtedly, the beginning of a new era in Iraq. And those moments were keenly and carefully watched by the Arabs and the rest of the world, with the hope that these steps would be the first bricks toward building a new, strong Iraq.
President Ghazi Al Yawar enjoys an excellent reputation, internally and externally, and has a special place in the hearts of the Iraqi people who have expressed their absolute happiness and confidence in him.
In his first speech, Ghazi Al Yawar promised his people he would undertake all efforts and work tirelessly so that Iraq could regain its status — in the Arab world, regionally and internationally. He has pledged to rebuild Iraq with Iraqi brains and hands.
The new government of Iraq comprises well-selected names and every member knows well the challenges that lie ahead and the efforts needed to tackle the current situation in Iraq. Motivated by the love of their motherland and the determination to serve their brethren, the new Iraqi Cabinet is ready to shoulder the responsibility and collectively work to bring about a positive and constructive outcome.
The world as a whole has blessed the new step in Iraq where authority is now being transferred to the sons of the soil after more than a year of occupation. The selection of the president and the government, taking into account all the political, religious and ethnic groups, would make all honest Iraqis to support the new government. The people of Iraq, all of them, could row their boat toward one direction, and that is toward the unity, peace, and progress of one Iraq.
In his first speech, the new president outlined clear goals and set priorities for his government, stressing serious work at all levels and solidarity and cooperation between the government and the people.
In his bid to achieve positive results, the president has called on his people to make nation-building their collective and ultimate goal. The new Iraqi president and government would, no doubt, carry on their work amid difficult and critical circumstances. The infrastructure is destroyed, security is lacking and basic services are absent. Nevertheless, Iraq stand on its feet, thanks to the efforts of the Iraqi government and people, the friends of Iraq the world over, the international organizations such as the Arab League and the United Nations.
The world has expressed joy and blessed Iraq’s first big step on the road to peace. Other steps would follow with the beginning of the rebuilding operations and the withdrawal of occupying forces. The leadership is now in the hands of the people of Iraq and the Iraqis themselves will decide their future. We congratulate the people of Iraq on the appointment of the new government. Our hearts are with them in their new test as we wish them a bright future.
— Essa bin Mohammed Al-Zedjali is editor in chief of The Times of Oman.
