US welcomes Iraqi compromise (13/10/05)

The US, with a large stake in seeking stability in Iraq, has welcomed a compromise over the country's draft constitution, saying that it would encourage broader participation in Saturday's referendum on the charter.

US helping seek stability in Iraq

Under a deal brokered partly by the US ambassador to Baghdad, Iraq's ruling Shi'ites and Kurds agreed to make changes to the text of the constitution and the Iraqi parliament approved the amendment yesterday.

The accord, aimed at drawing more support from minority Sunnis, includes setting up a panel that could propose revisions next year.

"This is a positive step," White House spokesman Scott McClellan said.

"We believe such steps will help Iraq move forward on the path to a strong and lasting democracy. This agreement will encourage more people to participate in the process, not only this weekend but in the future," he said.

The compromise won the endorsement of the Iraqi Islamic Party, one of several representing Sunnis. Many Sunnis, who have felt the charter favors Shi'ites and Kurds, continued to oppose it.

Source: Iraq Daily