Iraqi groups link role in politics to US exit

[NNN0LHI]

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2005-02/16/content_2581925.htm

BEIJING, Feb. 16 -- A meeting by 28 Iraqi groups, which boycotted January's historic elections, called for a date for US troops to leave Iraq if they are to take part in writing a new constitution.

The groups also called for differentiating the resistant force to the foreign occupiers from the terrorist acts against innocent Iraqis, and recognition of the people's right to resist" the occupation by foreign troops.

None of those present took part in the January 30 election mostly because they objected to a vote being held under what they call "foreign occupation".

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