TEHRAN A top official of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) said his party is totally opposed to any disintegration of Iraq and called for territorial integrity of his homeland in this sensitive juncture which is threatened by U.S. military adventurism. Emad Ahmad a member of PUK Political Bureau talking to the Tehran Times announced that the people of Iraq do not desire their country's disintegration and even Iraq's neighbors and the U.S. disagree with this motive.

Emad said America's gun totting diplomacy as well as out-moded political maneuvers clearly indicate that the U.S. intends to launch a military attack against Baghdad. We predict that U.S. most probably may attack Iraq, but we resolutely disagree with the U.S. military policy because it will harm none but the Iraqi people, PUK official remarked. Emad said U.S. in its drive to wage new offensive against Iraq has the initiative to convince Russia and France who are currently opposing any military option to the problem.

PUK official expressed hope that the new crisis be tackled through diplomatic means and the Iraqi government should comply with UN resolutions. On Turkey's deployment of military forces near Iraqi border, he said Ankara's intervention is under the pretext of creating security zone along its borders with Iraq. Nevertheless, in the case the Iraqi government is overthrown, Turkish government intends to occupy Mosul region in Iraqi Kurdistan as part of Ottoman Empire, deny the Kurds legitimate rights in the new Iraqi cabinet and to increase its influence on the formation of new regime in Iraq. Asked if progress has been made to mend fences with Kurdistan Democratic Party's (KDP) leader Massoud Barezani, he said, Mam (uncle) Jallal (Talebani), leader of PUK, has sent a letter of friendship and conciliation for KDP for establishing permanent peace in Iraqi Kurdistan. After receiving Mam Jalal's letter Mr. Barezani has appreciated the initiative and he would send a delegation from his political bureau in the earliest possible time for negotiations with PUK officials this week.

Emad further pointed out that the negotiations would focus on exchange of POWs, the return of refugees, establishment of commercial exchanges, free transportation and coordination in administration affairs. We believe the current differences existing between us should be removed through political and diplomatic channels, Emad said and expressed hope that KDP officials show honest flexibility far from party politics. Emad concluded, We desire to have active presence in the formation of future government in Iraq so that peace and stability be established in the region.

Even if Saddam is in power we want our rights totally to be preserved.