Malaysia rejects participation of Iraq interim government in OIC

[dArKeR]

The U.S.-appointed interim government in Iraq will not be invited to a major annual meeting of Islamic nations next month despite gaining key recognition from the Arab League, host country Malaysia said yesterday.

Malaysian Foreign Minister Syed Hamid Albar said Iraq's Governing Council will not be allowed to participate at a summit of the Organization of Islamic Conference, the Muslim world's largest grouping, because the country remains under U.S.-led occupation.

The refusal comes amid a push by Washington for the Governing Council to gain international recognition and credibility. A major hurdle was cleared this week when the Arab League - whose members form an important component of the Islamic Conference - gave the council Iraq's seat this week. The United Nations is considering a similar move.

http://www.etaiwannews.com/Asia/2003/09/12/1063331255.htm