Iraq has been devastated by war. Iraq has been devastated by 10 years of economic sanctions. We disarmed Iraq. Ritter said if the sanctions were lifted, Iraq would resume cooperating with the United Nations and the resulting engagement will be the key to stabilizing the region. The Ba ath party has stated they will privatize industry if the sanctions are lifted, he said.
Privatization is the beginning of a viable middle class, which is the first step toward democracy.
While he knows the process won t happen overnight, Ritter said it is the best way to reform Iraq. Saddam just turned 64, Ritter said. In 10 or 15 years he s not going to be there. Whoever takes over would have to deal with the reality of a middle class, of a moderated society. This website is best viewed by Netscape 4.5 or better and Internet Explorer 4.0 or better.