United Nations Radio

A combination of political and military efforts has contributed to continued improvement in security across Iraq during the past three months.

That, according to the latest report of United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Iraq.

The report says that although civilian casualties remain unacceptably high, the frequency of violent incidents and casualty figures continues to decline.

However, the Secretary-General points out that the gains made so far need to be sustained through meaningful dialogue and national reconciliation stressing that time is of essence and Iraq can no longer afford continued delays in finding viable political solutions.

He adds that the issue of disputed internal boundaries remains a priority for the UN Mission in Iraq.

Diane Bailey, United Nations Radio.

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