Bush urges Europe to help rebuild Iraq

US President George W Bush urged Europe yesterday to put aside bitter war disagreements with the United States and work to build democracy in Iraq or risk returning the nation to terrorists.

As anti-war demonstrators mobilised for a march of tens of thousands today, Mr Bush conceded in a speech that deep differences remain over Iraq, even among staunch war allies, the United States and Britain.

But, he asserted: "We did not charge hundred of miles into the heart of Iraq and pay a bitter cost of casualties and liberate 25 million people only to retreat before a band of thugs and assassins."