Council of the EU confirmed appointment of Olli Rehn

Government Information Unit
Ministry for Foreign Affairs

Press release 225/2004
12 July 2004





In Brussels on Monday 12 July, the Council of the European Union confirmed the appointment of Dr Olli Rehn as a member of the European Commission for the period 12 July to 31 October, 2004. The decision was made by the EU General Affairs and External Relations Council. Finland was represented at the Council meeting by Erkki Tuomioja, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister Paula Lehtomäki.

One of the main themes of the Council of EU foreign ministers was the situation in Iraq following the transfer of power on 28 June. Hoshyar Zebari, the foreign minister of Iraq, also took part in the conference. The EU gives its full support to the Interim Government of Iraq and is ready to enter into cooperation with it. The EU supports the future rebuilding of Iraq on the basis of UN Resolution 1546.

The EU deems it particularly important that a national conference representing a broad cross section of Iraqi society should be held during July. The Union's goal is a secure, united, prosperous and democratic Iraq. The EU is particularly keen to support the political process in Iraq and its economic and social reconstruction. Prosperity and the protection of Iraq's integrity are crucial factors in the stability of the entire region.

Finland is prepared to help finance the rebuilding of Iraq in 2005-2006. Last year Finland decided on a sum of EUR 5 million for this purpose. Improving the security situation in Iraq is a key requirement for rebuilding.

Further information: Jan Store, Director General, Ministry for Foreign Affairs, tel. +358 9 1605 5044