In a keynote speech to parliament, he admitted that while Germany had been fiercely opposed to the US-led military action and still believed it was the "wrong decision" to take, "we were not able to prevent this war."

Berlin would stand by its promise not to take any part in the campaign, he went on, but would fulfil its NATO commitments, including granting US forces overflight rights and unfettered access to bases here.

Schroeder also said he hoped the war would be over as soon as possible and that "with the overthrow of the dictatorship, the Iraqi people will be able to realise its dream of a life in peace, freedom and self-determination."

"The United Nations has to play the central role in shaping Iraq's future and the political reorganisation of the country after the war," he added.

Reconstruction did not just mean putting out oilfield fires and repairing damaged infrastructure nor granting a few concessions to companies to rebuild the country.

"It is essential that any process of reconstruction is organised under the responsibility of the United Nations."

Schroeder said there were four key planks for a fair, democratic reshaping of Iraq and the region.

They were guaranteeing Iraq's territorial integrity; letting the people of Iraq determine their own future; ensuring Iraq maintained control of its own oil resources; and making real progress in the Middle East peace process.

WAR.WIRE