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Meltha Magazine Online

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1997, Volume 3, No.1(7) page 33

PART III. CURRENT EVENTS

THE START

(The Assyrian National Congress turns a new page of the Assyrian history)

On 5 to 16 May, 1997, New York hosted a meeting of UNO non-governmental organizations Committee. As the Assyrian National Congress (ANC) report was put on the agenda, ANC Chairman Dr. Sargon Dadesho and ANC Council member Mr. George Geevargis were also present. For the first time in its modern history the UNO offered the floor to the representatives of the Assyrian people. As it was scheduled, Dr. S. Dadesho was supported to give a 10 minutes speech built around problems of the Assyrian people in the light of safeguard of its national, cultural and religious rights. However he received many questions and spoke for over 20 minutes instead as he came to terms with many other aspects of the 'present and the future Assyrian status. Some special interest was felt on the part of representatives of some Arab countries first and foremost of Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Sudan. The positive propositions that came from UNO Iraqi spokesman have opened new avenues not only for a dialogue with the current regime of Iraq, but also for mutual cooperation in the field of safeguard and development of cultural and religious rights of Assyrians in their homeland. The blind alley situation in Northern Iraq has shown that it is very urgent to find a kind of compromise with the current Iraqi power and to come to terms with some global issues with a view to safeguard the entire nation instead of gaining some uncertain momentum. in the safeguard of Kurdistan that no-one seems to accept.

The historical victory of ANC in UNO consideration of the Assyrian issue during its sessions shall be thoroughly highlighted with a view to discuss the future of the Assyrian nation on a national level as well.