'Diplomacy can be effective', says Secretary-General.

• Position: Cover Story - Includes related article on reactions to Annan's trip to Iraq - Kofi Annan's comments on his trip to Iraq - Interview

(excerpts from Mr. Annan's press conference on 24 February)

Q: The question is, you have mentioned on more than one occasion the linkage between diplomacy and preparation for the use of force, if necessary ...

A: Let me say that the point that I have made is that diplomacy can be effective, but it helps to have a military presence in the region. As I have said, if in fact you don't get to use it, it is even better. You are showing force in order not to use it. You can do a lot with diplomacy, but with diplomacy backed up by force you can get a lot more done.

Q: You said that Saddam Hussain had said that he felt he could trust you. Do you feel that you can trust him?

A: Can I trust Saddam Hussain? I think I can do business with him. I think he was serious when he took the engagement. I am perhaps not as pessimistic as some of you are. ... I think he realizes what it means for his people. He realizes that if he is going to see light at the end of the tunnel, Iraq has to cooperate and work with UNSCOM, and UNSCOM should respond in kind to accelerate the process of disarmament and implement the resolutions to make that possible. So I think he is serious. ... When I sensed that I would get a deal, I was of course elated and happy for the world and the people in the region and the poor Iraqi people. I was happy that their leader was seizing the moment and really wanted to do the right thing to protect his people, the region and, in time, to make friends and to come out of the isolation. But, of course, in negotiations you don't show all your feelings, so I was impassible as ever. ... Let me say that we did have a good human rapport. He did say several times, "I know I can do business with you. I know you are courageous and I know I can trust you". And his ministers repeated it to us the next morning.

Q: What makes you believe that Saddam Hussain will keep his word this time?

A: ... we had concluded many agreements with the Iraqis, but this is the first time that an agreement was negotiated with the President himself. It is a very disciplined, hard-working people. Once they know that the President himself is committed, they'll get down to work, they'll cooperate. But we have to do our part as well. We must behave appropriately.

Q: Can you share with us your personal view of the personality of President Saddam Hussain?

A: Well, he is very calm - very, very calm. Never raises his voice. Well-informed, contrary to the sense outside that he is...