U.N. envoy leaving for Iraq

WASHINGTON, Aug. 8 (UPI) -- The U.N. envoy for Iraq is expected to arrive in Baghdad early next week to meet Iraqi leaders and familiarize himself with the situation.

Ashraf Jahangir Qazi, Pakistan's ambassador in Washington, was appointed U.N. Secretary-General's special envoy for Iraq on July 12. His predecessor, Sergio Vieira de Mello, was killed last August in a Baghdad bombing, along with 22 other people.

On Friday, Qazi relinquished his charge as Pakistan's ambassador in Washington.

Although a seasoned diplomat with 36 years of service, this is by far Qazi's most difficult assignment. U.S. and other officials say Qazi will need a special force to protect him and the U.N. mission in Iraq.

While the United States is willing to provide the protection, officials in Washington hope Pakistan will also contribute troops to thats force. Pakistan is reluctant to do so.