The Standing Conference of Latin American Political Parties (Copppal) appealed for respect of the international law on the reconstruction issues after the Iraq war, so as to prevent the unilateral intervention from the United States.

"We make a call for the respect of the United Nations and its full participation in the solution of the conflict and request access by international organizations to provide humanitarian assistance for the Iraqi people," said the declaration issued by the political parties of 12 countries in the region.

Copppal's document was supported by political parties, mostly social democrats, from Chile, Colombia, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, Panama and Puerto Rico.

"We need to take international steps to reject unilateral actions attempting to impose regulations, certifications and sanctions to the detriment of the countries," the declaration added.

Copppal also said no on the new international resolutions driven by the United States against Cuba's government, as it happened in the UN Human Rights Commission.

The declaration reiterated Copppal's firm solidarity with Cuba "and its principles for the respect of the national sovereignty."

With respect to the armed conflicts in Colombia, Copppal stressed the only valid option was through dialogue and the use of force was always the last alternative.

(Xinhua News Agency April 6, 2003)