مجموعة ١٠/١٧(٣) "شؤون داخلية: الوضع السياسي؛ العلاقات مع الحكومة البريطانية" [ظ‎‎٨‎٠] (٥١٣/١٦٠)

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although ten days previously General Nuri had seemed to attach importance to
the publication of a declaration by the Prime Minister.
9. I am sending copies of this despatch and its enclosure to His Majesty s
representatives at Cairo and Jedda.
I have, &c.
BASIL NEWTON.
Enclosure.
Translation of Statement made by the Prime Minister on December 2\ to the
Finance Committee of the Chamber on the occasion of a discussion on the
vote for the Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
THE world is going through critical circumstances and being swept by a
violent storm such as is calculated to shake and undermine the powers of even
the most strongly-established nations. In the circumstances the task confronting
small nations, particularly the young ones, must no doubt be most difficult.
Accordingly, the management of the affairs of such nations in such troubled world
conditions calls for the greatest measure of wisdom and loyalty on the part ot
those in places of responsibility, and for the closest co-operation and solidarity
among the people, for without such co-operation the ship of btate cannot reach
the haven of safety. .
The bases on which our foreign policy stands and by which we are guided
in seeking to steer a sound course in the present terrible world conditions are three
in number : —
Firstly. —To ensure the safety of the country and not to involve the
country in any action calculated to drag it into the war; to exert the utmost
efforts to ensure the continuance of the tranquillity which the country has
been enjoying notwithstanding the frightful world struggle, in order that the
members of the nation should be able to continue their normal activities to
their own interest and the interest of the whole nation and to conserve all
their energies for the service of their country and for the defence of their
national existence should compelling need arise.
Secondly—To continue the discharge of the national mission which
Iraq has taken upon herself to carry out, especially as Iraq is one of the
Arab States enjoying the boon of independence and is in a position to voice
the national aspirations and seek their realisation.
Thirdly .—To discharge our international undertakings, such as the Arab
Alliance and Pact of Non-Aggression, which unites us to our neighbours. As
regards our relations with our Ally, Great Britain, these are, as }ou know,
based on the Treaty of Alliance concluded between us. We have adhered,
and shall continue to adhere, to the fulfilment of this treaty, both in the
letter and the spirit, striving continuously for the strengthening of the
links of friendship between us on a reciprocal basis. Similarly, our friendly
relations are being strengthened with States in amity with us.
I and my colleagues have undertaken upon ourselves, in truth and sincerity, to
proceed in the light of these three principles, but there is no doubt that we are
required to exercise much care and steadiness to bring them all into harmony and
we must not be influenced by propaganda of any kind, especially as in their present
struggle the various nations are each attempting to enlist in its own service all toe
forces of the world. Having regard to the important position it occupies, Iraq is
the first country to which attention will be turned in this connexion. So our
principal duty is to find the correct course for us to follow in this troubled sea in
order to lead the nation to safety while realising its high aims.
I must, however, make it plain that, as an independent State, Iraq should, in
all her proceedings, seek her national interest and the realisation of her national
aspirations and avoid being carried away towards a course inconsistent with these
interests and aspirations. , , , . , , , , , , v
I wish to seize the occasion to thank the various leaders and members of the
nation who have supported the Government and acted loyally to their country.
In conclusion, I pray God to help us and guide our steps in the present
historic sta^e in our national life in order that we should continue our progress
towards our"high goal under the segis of our beloved King and the noble Regent.