*The following transcript has been edited, in accordance with the Chatham House Rule, in order to preserve the identities of those involved.

Introduction by Person A

Good afternoon...Let me welcome you ... I have so many distinguished people, that I don't want to take the time to recognize them all...

Person B

Thank you very much. ...  As someone ... who has been very involved with issues relating to the United States Administration's policy and Iraq, I'm quite concerned about the direction the administration has taken over the last year, and I believe that all of us are people of goodwill, that understand that differences that do exist can be resolved peacefully. I have to say that it is very important that our administration understands that the world is watching with respect to the consistency or inconsistency of our policies.  It is not appropriate for our nation to pick winners and losers in nuclear nations. That it's not appropriate for us to use threats to coerce other nations.  That such threats will ultimately lead to conflict and are designed to do so.  So we need to insist upon the primacy of diplomacy.  We need to insist that we take a new direction that explores the tremendous economic opportunities which do exist through peaceful cooperation with United States and Iran.  And we must not accept any saber rattling or brinkmanship with respect to any of the policies.  We know now, reflecting upon the sorry trajectory of events in Iraq that this administration does not have the capacity for thoughtful and patient negotiation.  Yet all of you who have contact with it must encourage them to do so, particularly at this time.  So I remain committed to the cause of peace and I believe the only way we can achieve security is to work for peace and diplomacy.  I want to thank you for the opportunity to come here and to pledge to you my ongoing commitment and that of my wife.  As well, to continue to communicate, to continue to promote understanding, to continue to insist on lowering the volume, lowering the rhetoric, working patiently to resolve the differences which I think can be resolved, which I think can lead to cooperation which I think can help us solve the war in Iraq and to help us lead to a new day for peace in the entire region.  Thank you very much.  ...  I look forward to continue to work with you.  Thank you.