Security Council votes to expand UN role in Iraq

UNITED NATIONS, Aug 10 (Reuters) The Security Council today voted to assign the United Nations an expanded political role in Iraq, promoting reconciliation between its rival factions and dialogue with neighboring countries.

The 15-nation council unanimously approved a US-British resolution boosting the responsibilities of the four-year-old UN Assistance Mission for Iraq, or UNAMI, whose mandate expired today.

The new mandate requires UNAMI to ''advise, support and assist'' Iraqis on ''advancing their inclusive, political dialogue and national reconciliation,'' reviewing their constitution, fixing internal boundaries and staging a census.

The mission would promote talks between Iraq and its neighbors on border security, energy and refugees, assist the return of millions who have fled the violence, coordinate reconstruction and aid, and help promote economic reform.

The expanded role is expected to require an increase in UN international staff in Baghdad, who currently number about 50 in the fortified Green Zone government and diplomatic compound. Until now, they have been mainly concerned with helping with elections and monitoring human rights.

REUTERS AE BST2046