Natwar had written 3 letters to Iraqi Oil Minister: Pathaq report

New Delhi, July 7 (UNI) Following is the text of the three letters which former External Affairs Minister K Natwar Singh had written to Iraqi Oil Minister Amer Mohammed Rasheed and have since become controversial in the wake of the oil-for-food scam: The first letter written on January 30, 2001: Excellency, I am sending this letter with Mr Andaleeb Sehgal. He was present when I called on you on January 22, 2001 at your office in Baghdad.

He is well known to me for many years and so is the company he owns.

He enjoys my full support and confidence, and I would appreciate you giving him your full assistance and cooperation.

May I take this opportunity to thank you for receiving me and giving me so much of your time out of your busy schedule.

I greatly valued our discussions on Indo-Iraq relations and wider issues of importance to both our Parties and countries. The Congress Party greatly values its fraternal links with the Arab Ba'ath Socialist Party. I believe that these links have been further intensified during our stay in Baghdad.

We have returned full of admiration for your stouthearted people.

With regards, Yours sincerely (K Natwar Singh) MORE UNI SN PR VA RS2118