Arab League Secretary General Mr Amr Mussa says there is a "strong possibility" that Saddam Hussein will allow UN weapons inspectors back to Iraq.
Speaking on the margins of a conference in Cernobbio in northern Italy today, Mr Mussa said he had recent "contacts with the Iraqi government" and had the impression that the way could be cleared for a return of the weapons inspectors.
"Yes, there is room for inspectors to be allowed to go back, especially after a round of consultations and discussions on that matter," Mr Mussa said.
"Our objective is to avoid war, to avoid military confrontation," he added, indicating a need for greater international consultation on the issue.
Mr Mussa was speaking on the sidelines of the annual "Ambrosetti Workshop", which draws leading personalities from the world of politics, diplomacy and business to the shores of Lake Como.
AFP