From the current edition of the Cairo Al-Ahram:

"A conference of this magnitude of Sharm El-Sheikh certainly indicates a desire to find a solution that restores stability to Iraq through the implementation of UN Security Council resolution 1546. The resolution calls for the formation of a transitional government to run the country until general elections are held in January 2005. The transitional government was formed in June 2004, with help from the UN. Resolution 1546 calls for the withdrawal of the occupation forces once the transitional government requests it, or after 12 months. Six months have already passed -- something for the Sharm El-Sheikh conference to think about.


The conference is a final chance to address the humanitarian crisis that one Iraqi city after another is facing.


Events in Iraq have violated all international norms. They undermine the credibility and universality of human values. International norms are not the exclusive preserve of the West. People are suffering and dying, their wealth squandered, their sovereignty trampled underfoot, all for the benefit of the US and its allies.


UN participation in the formation of the transitional government in June is something worth repeating until Iraq is rid of occupation. Initiatives and conferences are not enough to end the tension in the region. The tragedy in Iraq will not be over until the occupation is over.


This is a chance for the UN to repair its damaged legitimacy and assume the rightful leadership of the international community. This is a chance for Europe, Japan and the US to reclaim their democratic values. This is a chance for countries such as China and Russia to help their past and future allies in the region. This is a chance for Iraq's neighbours to prove their goodwill regarding Iraq's security and stability. It is a chance for the Arab League and its members to stand up for Iraq's rights, alone or alongside the international community.


Will anyone take these chances, for they may well be the last?"

A