On behalf of the Iraq Solidarity association in France, I would like to thank the 35th National Assembly for Peace and Democracy to be your guest, along with comrades from Indonesia, Iraq, Japan, Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland, USA and others.

As millions of antiwar activists all over the world, we stand against the war in Iraq, opposed bombings and fights. War is not over in Iraq. It’s the daily life of millions of people, suffering from occupation and terrorism, after years of embargo and dictatorship.

We stand against war because we want a better future for all people living in Iraq. Our activity as antiwar activists would have no sense if we don’t support the progressive people in this country. That’s why we created the Iraq Solidarity association in France, in support to the struggle of unemployed and homeless people, workers and women who needs a better life and recognized rights.

Against imperial war policies, ethnical cleanings, religious conflicts, blind terrorism, continue, We, progressive people and pacifists, have to help and support our comrades who suffer directly from the war situation. This is true for Iraq, this is true also for all the conflicts nowadays in the world.

There can be no peace where people lack the basic daily needs, where there’s no social rights, where women are not equal to men, where people are treated in regard of their allowed ethnic or religious origin rather than as human beings living on the same planet. That’s why we need so much international meetings like the Zenko Assembly for Peace and Democracy, to build links and solidarity for a better world.

So, may this assembly be a step toward a world of Peace, Solidarity, Freedom and Equality.

Nicolas Dessaux, for Solidarity Iraq association (France)