Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing said in Brussels Wednesday that the principle of "running Iraq by Iraqis" should be observed in efforts to solve problems facing the war-torn country.  

"Iraq belongs to all the Iraqi people, and its future can only be decided by the Iraqi people themselves," Li told the International Conference on Iraq held here.

"To resolve the Iraqi issue, it is necessary to let the UN play an important role, hear what the neighboring countries and Arab countries have got to say, address their legitimate concerns and give scope for their positive role," he said.

On security situation, the foreign minister said a comprehensive approach should be adopted.

"We condemn violence against civilians, and hope that the multinational force in Iraq will live up to its responsibility to stabilize the situation," he said.

"It is important to quickly rebuild the Iraqi military and police force. However, we should also understand that there are more profound causes behind the ongoing security problems, which call for a comprehensive approach," he added.

On Iraq's economic reconstruction, Li underscored the need for Iraq to seek a sustainable development of its economy.

"Years of sanctions and wars have destroyed the lifeline of the Iraqi economy, economically, its internal function should be restored," he said.

"It is of vital importance to restore Iraq's internal function and tap the full potential of its abundant natural and human resources," he said.

(Xinhua News Agency June 23, 2005)