Iraqi president praises UN's role in supporting democracy

Iraqi President Barham Salih on Sunday gave praise to the United Nations (UN) for supporting Iraq's democratic establishment, a presidency statement said, Trend reports citing Xinhua.

The comments came when the president received the UN top envoy to Iraq Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert in his office.

Salih emphasized UN's important role in Iraq as well as its efforts to support the democratic process in the country, said the statement.

He said that there is a need to intensify international community efforts "to bolster Iraq's pivotal role by reducing regional tension and consolidating international peace and security," the statement added.

"The Iraqi people look forward to a new era where security, stability and prosperity prevail," said the president.

For her part, Hennis-Plasschaert reiterated UN's support for Iraq in various areas, saying that UN continues providing advice and assistance, and ensuring the repatriation of the internally displaced people to their homes, the statement said without giving further details.

The meeting came four days after Hennis-Plasschaert called on the international community to continually provide funding and support for Iraq's post-conflict reconstruction programs.

She said that "progress has been made, but the road ahead is long and complex."