UN's Annan Makes Surprise Visit To Iraq

Annan (R) being greeted in Amman, Jordan, on 11 November by Jordanian Foreign Minister Farouk Kasrawi. (RFE/RL) 12 November 2005 -- UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan is in Baghdad today on a surprise visit.

Annan, speaking at a press conference with Iraqi Prime Minister Ibrahim Ja'fari, emphasized the importance of "reconciliation" in Iraq.


The unannounced visit to Iraq is Annan's first since U.S.-led invasion forces ousted former leader Saddam Hussein in April 2003.


As Annan's arrival was announced, a car bomb exploded in a market in east Baghdad. Police said at least four people were killed and more than 20 others injured in the incident.


(Reuters/AFP/AP)