Britain vows support in Iraqi elections against terror

Britain will support Iraq's security forces in tackling terrorism and providing a "secure" environment for the upcoming Iraqi parliamentary elections, the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) announced Wednesday.

Iraq is set to hold its third parliamentary elections under its 2005 constitution April 30.

According to British Foreign Office Minister of State for the Middle East Hugh Robertson, Britain supports the people of Iraq as they participate in the "democratic process," recognizing the role of the Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) in making this possible, Xinhua reported.

"It is essential that IHEC is given the freedom to conduct its work, and that its impartiality and neutrality is respected," Robertson noted.

The minister added that continued national dialogue and an "inclusive" political process will be essential to achieving Iraq's long-term security.

However, he also expressed his concern over the security situation in Iraq, particularly in Anbar province, according to the FCO.