[originaltext] A major conference on the future of Iraq sponsored jointly by

A major conference on the future of Iraq sponsored jointly by the United States and the European Union begins in the Belgian capital Brussels within the next few hours. The meeting will discuss practical ways of helping Iraq with reconstruction, reasserting law and order and adopting a new constitution. Nick Charles reports.
   "Given the history of transatlantic disaccord over Iraq, much has been made of the symbolism of this conference being co-sponsored by the Americans and the European Union. But what beyond symbolism is it about? It is not supposedly about major new offers of aid or commitments of troops. But without those will the conference risk highlighting the uncertainties that are still existing in Iraq and the misgivings that many still feel about the whole enterprise. For the Iraqi authorities the conference will offer a platform to press home their case that they are making progress and that they do offer a credible government that is worth backing. The Bush administration will hold the gathering will send a message that it is not alone in its efforts even though there are still differences of approach."