Arif Ali, Arab News

MUSCAT, 11 April 2004 — The Sultanate of Oman has appealed for calm to bring an end to the new cycle of violence engulfing Iraq.

“Self-restraint, coupled with flexibility and responsibility, are the best course to adopt at both ends at this critical juncture,” Sayyid Badr Al-Busaidi, foreign undersecretary, told Arab News yesterday. “Violence will only precipitate the crisis and add to the suffering of the Iraqis,” he said.

It was of paramount importance to create an atmosphere where a smooth transfer of power in Iraq can take place by June 30 as planned. “The bloody confrontation in the last few days can only complicate the transition,” he added.

He said Oman was committed to Iraq’s sovereignty and integrity. “Ultimately, it’s the Iraqi people who have to determine their own future in their own best interest.”

A day earlier Foreign Minister Yusuf ibn Alawi held a meeting with US Vice President Dick Cheney in Washington discussing developments in the Middle East, the undersecretary said.