Fed: Former UN expert accuses govt of having closed mind

AAP General News (Australia)
04-12-2000
Fed: Former UN expert accuses govt of having closed mind

A former United Nations official has branded the Australian government weak in failing
to pressure the United States to push for an end to UN sanctions against Iraq.

Former UN assistant secretary-general DENIS HALLIDAY says the sanctions imposed after
the Gulf War are now hurting the people of Iraq and are no longer needed.

Mr HALLIDAY recently met with Foreign Minister ALEXANDER DOWNER, but was less than
pleased with the outcome of the talks.

He's told the Nine Network's Today show that he was deeply disappointed Mr DOWNER didn't
seem to have the courage to consider changing Australian policy.

Mr HALLIDAY says Mr DOWNER was unwilling to listen to his position, which was that
Australia had a special link to the United States and needed to use that relationship
to bring about change.

Mr HALLIDAY also personally attacked Mr DOWNER, confirming he had said Mr DOWNER was
the most weak and inexperienced foreign minister he had encountered in 34 years.

AAP RTV lm/jn

KEYWORD: SANCTIONS (CANBERRA)

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