Middle East News
EU welcomes Iraq taking control over security
Jul 2, 2009, 8:48 GMT
Stockholm - The European Union on Thursday welcomed that Iraq has taken more responsibility for security in the country following the withdrawal of US troops from Iraqi cities and towns.
US combat forces pulled out on Tuesday from Iraqi cities and towns as part of an agreement between the two countries that would have all US troops out of Iraq by the end of 2011.
The move indicated increased 'readiness and determination of the government of Iraq to take responsibility and ownership for the development of the country,' a EU council presidency statement said.
Sweden on Wednesday took over the rotating six-month presidency of the 27-nation bloc.
The statement said Iraq still faces 'a number of challenges' and expressed regret over the victims of recent terrorist attacks.
The US has some 130,000 troops in Iraq, and some were to remain in the cities to assist Iraqi security forces in training and advising.
COMMENT
blog comments powered by DisqusLatest Headlines in Middle East
- 1. Jerusalem prelate tells Arab Spring youth to have confidence
- 2. More than 100 killed in Syria ahead of ceasefire deadline
- 3. At least 43 killed in Syria, despite UN criticism
- 4. 19 killed in Syria as ceasefire deadline approaches
- 5. Pilgrims flock to Jerusalem for Easter, Passover
Older Talkback
