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Romania Would Send Specialists to Iraq
Parliament agreed on Wednesday to contribute non-combat troops to a U.S.-led coalition to disarm Iraq and to allow the United States to use Romania's airspace and airports. Romania, which in November received an invitation to join NATO, will deploy 278 troops, including those specializing in nuclear, biological and chemical decontamination, de-mining, as well as military police and medical assistance. Parliament approved a request made earlier this week by President Ion Iliescu in a 351-0 vote. There were 74 abstentions by the nationalist Great Romania Party. Speaking to lawmakers, Foreign Minister Mircea Geoana said the country needed to be on the side of the United States and other nations in disarming Iraq. "If Saddam Hussein is not disarmed and is allowed to develop his capabilities, he could strike Romania and (the rest of) Europe," Geoana said. He figured it out, funny how so many others can't. Ilie Ilascu, a senator for the Great Romania Party, said his party was against Romania taking part in a military intervention that has not yet been approved by the United Nations. The United States recently requested that Romania assist in a possible war in Iraq. Romania, which was under communist rule until 1989, is keen to show itself a reliable ally of Washington. Romania sent infantry and military police troops to Afghanistan last year. Thanks guys. Posted by: Steve 2003-02-12 |
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