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Russian refugee camps in Iran for Iraqis
March 19, 2003 21:18 IST
Russia is planning to set up refugee camps in Iran for Iraqi citizens in the event of a United States-led war.
"A deployment plan has already been drawn up. If necessary, the Russian Emergency Situations Ministry will set up camps for Iraqi refugees in Iran," Interfax, quoting a government source, said.
At the Russian leadership's order, the ministry has already conducted preparatory work under its humanitarian plan.
RESDM Minister Sergei Shoigu has announced that Russia will provide humanitarian aid to Iraqi citizens who leave the country if the war begins.
"Refugees will move towards Iran and Turkey. Their number could reach 600,000," Shoigu told reporters.