Iraqi move on inspectors mooted
From corresponents in Baghdad
17sep02
IRAQ'S Foreign Minister is reportedly to make "an important announcement" in New York in the next few hours that "moves in the right direction" in resolving the stand-off over disarmament.
Western diplomats in Baghdad have foreshadowed the move by Naji Sabri.
Their comments today came after President Saddam Hussein chaired three meetings of Iraq's top leadership in the space of just 24 hours.
Reuters has reported that amid rumours of some kind of reaction or letter expected from Iraq, Sabri had cancelled all appointments today.
He was to have seen UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan as well as Canadian Prime Minister Jean Cretien, among others.
French Foreign Minister Dominique de Villepin said some Arab officials believe Saddam may be preparing to re-admit UN arms inspectors to his country.
The United States has been urging the United Nations to act on Iraq, which it accuses of stockpiling weapons of mass destruction.
President George W. Bush, whose stated aim is to oust Saddam, has threatened US military action if the international body does not get results.