United Nations: The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) unanimously extended the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI) for one year.

In a resolution adopted 15-0, the Security Council reaffirmed that the world body "should play a leading role in assisting the Iraqi people and Government in the formation of institutions for representative Government".

The Council also welcomed the appointment of Ashraf Jehangir Qazi as the new special representative for Iraq by Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

UNAMI was established on August 14 last year and the Council would review its mandate in one year's time or earlier if the Iraqi Government demands it.