Middle East News
Iraqi president in Riyadh for talks with Saudi King
Apr 11, 2010, 16:50 GMT
Riyadh - Iraqi President Jalal Talabani arrived in Saudi Arabia Sunday for a two-day visit to discuss with Saudi King Abdullah developments in the formation a new government in Iraq.
Diplomatic sources in Riyadh described the visit as 'the first practical Saudi step to tackle the crisis of formation of a new Iraqi government.'
However, Saudi Foreign Minister Saud al-Faisal said that the kingdom did not interfere in Iraq's internal affairs.
'We support all Iraqis, and Iraq's unity, independence and sovereignty over its territory, and we maintain the same distance from all politicians,' he was quoted Asharq al-Awsat newspaper Sunday.
His remarks came after some observers said the kingdom supports former Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi, after his recent visit to the Kingdom in February.
Observers said Saudi Arabia would boost Allawi over his Shiite rival Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki's coalition, as it is concerned of Iran's influence over the Iraqi government.
Results of the March 7 parliamentary elections showed Allawi's Iraqiya List winning 91 seats in the 325-member parliament, followed by al-Maliki's State of Law coalition with 89 seats.
Intense political jockeying has followed the results, as both al- Maliki and Allawi claim the right to form the new government.
Al-Maliki's coalition has asked a court to order a manual recount of ballots cast, saying they have proof of fraud.
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