| President Saddam Hussein has praised Iraqi military scientists for making a "new and important scientific achievement" to upgrade Iraqi defense systems. "We are not surprised when you (the scientists) say you can accomplish any task," Saddam told a group of military commanders and researchers, according to a report in Sunday's official al-Iraq newspaper. "The policies of big countries are those of (self) interest. So, we have to depend on ourselves to reach our goals," Saddam reportedly said. The report did not provide specific details about the "new and important scientific achievement" Saddam referred to, except to say it "would strengthen Iraq's capabilities in defending its skies and territories." |