The secretary-general also welcomes the prime minister's statement that such practices are completely contrary to Iraqi government policy.

The secretary-general expresses his deepest condolences to the government of Iraq and to the families of the bereaved.

The secretary-general is worried by the unexpected announcement of the presidential decree concerning the national assembly.

repeatedly urged all actors in conflict situations around the world -- governments, local authorities and armed forces -- to protect the right of all citizens to reliable information and the right of journalists to provide it without fearing for their security.

The secretary-general and the United Nations stand fully behind the millennium development goals, which are internationally accepted and which have the broad support of member states and civil society.

He has decided to interrupt his vacation to take stock of progress towards the 2005 world summit, and to support the president of the General Assembly in his efforts to ensure a successful summit.