UN chief Kofi Annan said in Egypt on Tuesday that the international community should work toward establishing "a stable Iraq, a peaceful Iraq, a democratic Iraq -- a new Iraq."

He made the remarks at the opening ceremony of an international conference on Iraq, which was attended by foreign ministers and representatives of more than 20 countries and organizations.

Annan said that the United Nations would like to help Iraq in holding the general elections due to be held on Jan. 30, 2005, stressing that they must take place in a conducive environment.

"The elections are a critical part of Iraq transition. They are being conducted by the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, which the UN is advising and supporting," he said.

As for the security in Iraq, he said, "The widespread insecurity, including indiscriminate acts of terror, is the greatest impediment to a successful transition process."

He reiterated the UN's recognition of the interim Iraqi government, saying that the authorities have the right and duty to maintain law and order throughout the country.

He also urged the international community to come together within the framework of UN Security Council resolution 1546 on Iraq, ensuring that a sovereign, secure and self-confident Iraq takes its place in the region.

Following speeches made by Annan and Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Abu Gheit, the conference started a closed-door session.

Source: Xinhua