US reaffirms Iraq support

WASHINGTON, Sept 25, (KUNA): US President Donald Trump hosted Tuesday Iraqi President Barham Saleh in New York to discuss how best to enhance the “already robust partnerships on issues such as security, trade and energy.”

The White House said in a statement that specifically, Trump highlighted “his strong support for the continued fight against (IS) and all terrorist groups.”

Trump stressed “the need to protect Iraqi religious minorities and confront Iran’s destabilizing actions and influence.”

Trump also expressed the US’ commitment “to Iraqi democracy and the rule-of-law.”

“Both Presidents acknowledged the need for the Iraqi government to do all it can to maintain a favorable market for United States investors and energy firms seeking to do business in Iraq, which will increase Iraq’s economic prosperity and energy independence,” the statement added.

In remarks to reporters before their bilateral meeting, Trump said, “We’re doing well with Iraq. It’s been a very long and complicated but friendly relationship.”

He reiterated, “We’ve captured thousands of (IS) fighters and taken back 100 percent of the caliphate.”

“When I first became President, it was a mess. It was a big mess. And we all worked together and we got it done, but it was a great achievement, so we appreciate that,” he remarked.

For his part, the Iraqi President said, “It’s an opportunity ... to reaffirm our gratitude to the United States and the international coalition that has come to help us overcome the tyranny of (IS) and terrorism.”

He added, “Now, the task of rebuilding Iraq, reconstructing Iraq, affirming the sovereignty of Iraq, and being a partner in the neighborhood for a more stable Middle East is a hope and an aspiration that we look for the help of the United States and the help of the international community.”