'We Have No Illusions'.(Moktar Lamani, Arab League)(Interview)

Byline: Scott Johnson

The 22-member league of arab states was created to ensure a platform for Arab nationalism after World War II, and in a move intended in part to counter Iranian influence, the organization recently decided to reopen its offices in Baghdad. Since taking office as the head of the mission in Iraq last month, Moroccan diplomat Moktar Lamani has sought to bring together various Iraqi factions in an attempt to restore peace and speed up the process of political reconciliation. NEWSWEEK's Scott Johnson spoke to him recently in Baghdad. Excerpts:

JOHNSON: What drove the decision to open a mission here?

LAMANI: First of all, the situation. We have no illusions about how complicated it is here, but we're trying to do something. One of the reasons we're here is to push for reconciliation.

Between who exactly?

Between all Iraqis--with the exception of Al Qaeda and terrorists. But those who are against occupation and are using weapons, yes. We're trying to convince them to use the political process. You know, working in the United Nations you develop some kinds of relations. I was known in New York for being a man of consensus. I believe in dialogue, that it can change the world.

Tell me about this reconciliation meeting you have planned.