policy
Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidy announced Wednesday that Iraq would be free of foreign military presence by early October, stressing state control over all weaponry. This came as Al-Zaidy received U.S. Central Command Commander Charles Brad Cooper in Baghdad. Al-Zaidy reiterated commitment to agreed timelines, fixing September 30th as the final deadline for the international coalition to end its military mission and withdraw its forces. He explained October 1st marks a new era of full Iraqi sovereignty, enabling it to protect its security and stability through its own built-up military capabilities. Al-Zaidy urged adherence to the constitution, protecting national interests, and directing public efforts towards reconstruction and development. He emphasized Iraq's need for all citizens to build a strong economy, stable state, and a better future for coming generations. He stressed that state monopoly on weapons, legally, safeguards everyone, bolsters state authority and sovereignty, ensures security, and is crucial for Iraq's advancement to prosperity. Both sides confirmed the final agreement to conclude the coalition's military mission, aligning with the PM's mid-July Washington visit. They also highlighted the shift in Iraqi-U.S. relations towards broader economic, developmental, and security partnership, founded on mutual respect and shared interests.
