Iraq rejects proposed changes to new sanctions

BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) -- Iraq rejected attempts on Tuesday to amend a new sanctions plan for the United Nations' oil-for-food program.

The U.N. created the oil-for-food program as a loophole in post-Gulf War sanctions, allowing Iraq to sell oil so Baghdad could purchase food, medicine and other humanitarian needs. The funds are controlled by the United Nations. Sanctions placed on Iraq because of its 1990 invasion of Kuwait continue to forbid Baghdad to sell its oil for other purposes.

The United States and Britain offered amendments to the sanctions plan on Monday, including provisions that would allow for international investment in Iraq.

"All these changes or amendments are cosmetic ones to make the ugly face of this resolution look better," said Naji Sabri, state minister for foreign affairs. "Iraq does not need investment. Iraq needs to use its own resources."

Iraq has already rejected an extension of the current oil-for-food program and the new British proposal that would loosen restrictions on trade with Iraq, except for a list of restricted items.

The oil-for-food program was created in order to allow Iraq to sell oil with the proceeds going to food, medicine and other humanitarian needs. The funds are controlled by the United Nations.