New York, 22 Nov 2011 – In response to a question regarding Camp Ashraf in Iraq and reports on the imminent closure of the camp, UN Secretary-General Spokesman Martin Nesirky said there must be a ‘durable and peaceful solution’ for Ashraf.
“It is a matter of national sovereignty for the Iraqi authorities,” Nesirky said. “But, on the other hand, it is also clear that there needs to be a durable and peaceful solution to this problem.  And that’s why the United Nations is ready to assist.  And when I say the United Nations, that means in the form of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, together with UNHCR, as you just mentioned; with the refugee agency.”
The spokesman was questioned on concerns about the closure of the camp to which he added, “The Secretary-General himself has been involved in contacts with the Iraqi leaders and other international leaders on this topic.  It is obvious that there needs to be a peaceful solution.”