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Professional Luncheon: Scott Ritter, Former Weapons Inspector in Iraq
Scott Ritter, Former Chief U.N. Weapons Inspector in Iraq
February 05, 2003 12:00 PAC
posted by Wayne Hunter
12:00-13:30
(The speech and Q & A will be in English)

As a chief weapons inspector for the United Nations Special Commission in Iraq in the early nineties, Scott Ritter was labeled a hero by some, a maverick by others, and a spy by the Iraqi government. In charge of searching out weapons of mass destruction within Iraq, Ritter was on the front lines of the ongoing battle against arms proliferation. His experience in enemy territory served as the basis for his book "Endgame," which explored the shortcomings of American foreign policy in the Persian Gulf region and alternative approaches to handling the Iraqi crisis.

Ritter, now viewed as an anti-war activist, will visit Japan to speak about his views on a possible U.S.-led military attack on Iraq. The ballistic missile technology expert who has visited Iraq more than 50 times on inspection missions, will hold sessions with various Japanese media. He will deliver a first-hand account of the effect of the imposed sanctions on the Iraqi people. His impassioned discussion explores the area where justice meets compassion and covers the controversial topic of weapons of mass destruction.

Ritter has complained, in the past week, that his comments on Iraq have been drowned out by media reports about his 2001 arrest stemming from an Internet sting.

Don't miss this opportunity to hear from this high-profile figure on one of today's most critical and controversial issues.

Help us plan proper seating and food preparation by reserving in advance, on-line or at the Front Desk. The charge is 3,150 yen for Associates and guests and 2,100 yen for FCCJ Working Press Members for a "set meal" and 1,700 yen for Associates and guests and 1,200 yen for FCCJ Working Press Members for a "sandwich plate," tax included. The moderator's introduction is scheduled to begin at 12:20. Reservations canceled less than 24 hours in advance will be charged in full.

Professional Activities Committee

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