ISLAMABAD, May 23: Pakistan backed the lifting of sanctions against Iraq because it would end the people’s suffering, state media reported on Friday.

“The Iraqi people have suffered tremendously over the last few decades, their suffering must now come to an end”, the 15-member council except Syria voted to end economic sanctions against Iraq.

The resolution also asked occupying US and British forces to help form an interim Iraqi-led administration “until an internationally recognized, representative government is established by the Iraqi people.”

Ambassador Munir Akram said the resolution affirmed Iraqi sovereignty and territorial integrity, opened the door to reconstruction, humanitarian and economic revival.—AFP