MEPs to discuss Iraq, Stability Pact

The European Parliament will be meeting for its September session this week, with Iraq and the revision of the Growth and Stability pact topping the agenda.

MEPs will evaluate the effect of EU funding for Iraq and efforts to introduce democracy in the country during a debate with national governments and the European Commission.

The issue of the two kidnapped Italian aid workers will also be raised as well as observations about the new administration in Iraq - such as Baghdad's controversial backing of the death penalty.

Today MEPs will observe a minute's silence at noon in memory of the hundreds of people killed in the Beslan school siege in southern Russia. Schools in several EU countries are also expected to take part in the minute's silence at the same time.

After the debate with the EU Dutch presidency and the Commission on the Growth and Stability Pact, MEPs will be able to air their views on the proposed changes that were discussed by the bloc's finance ministers on Friday. Various MEPs are expected to oppose any weakening of the pact and are keen for the rules to be applied equally to all member states.

The newly elected president of the European Parliament, Josep Borrell, will set out his political priorities for his term in office when he addresses the plenary session.

All Maltese MEPs, except for John Attard Montalto who is on vacation, are expected to attend the plenary session.