New security pact signed in oil-rich Basra

BASRA, Iraq, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Political and religious groups in the oil-rich city of Basra have signed a new peace accord to stem violence as British troops transfer control.

Twenty-two representatives of political or religious factions signed a nine-point declaration of principles aimed at capping the power vacuum in the city, according to Iraqi media accounts of Tuesday's meeting.

Basra is where nearly all of Iraq's oil exports head to market and where 80 percent of the oil reserves are either in or around. The power struggle is directly linked to control over the government apparatus that controls the oil city, as well as the booming oil and fuel smuggling trade.

Al-Malaf Press reports the meeting is the first stage of a new security program as British troops ready to transfer control of security to Iraqis. The British controlled the Basra area since 2003 with a more laissez-faire policy that has been blamed for allowing militias -- both independent and connected to political or religious factions -- to rule the city.

The Voices of Iraq news agency reports the document affirms control of security in the hands of the Basra provincial council.

It also called on all to respect the judicial process, the independence of security forces and the relinquishing of weapons by all except government forces, the Addustour newspaper reports.

Among those who attended the meeting were representatives of the parties involved in the Basra power struggle -- the ruling Fadhila Party, as well as the Sadr Movement and the Islamic Supreme Council of Iraq.