US, Iraq sign security pact

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Source: CCTV.com | 11-18-2008 12:59

The US and Iraq have signed a security pact, extending the presence of US forces in Iraq for three years.

The agreement came after Iraq's cabinet unanimously approved the long-awaited pact on Sunday.

The US and Iraq have signed a security pact,extending the presence of US forces in Iraq for three years. (CCTV.com)

Under the deal, US troops will be pulled out step-by-step, and leave the country by the end of 2011.

US ambassador Ryan Crocker and Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari signed the agreement on behalf of their governments on Monday.

The pact was reached after nearly a year of tough negotiations between the two countries. But it must still be approved by the Iraqi parliament.

Iraqi leaders consider the firm deadline for US troops withdrawal to be a negotiating victory, and they have hailed the beginning of a new stage in the bilateral relations.

Hoshiyar Zibari, Iraqi Foreign Minister, said, "This is certainly a historic day for the Iraqi-American relationship, after the signing of this security pact following long months of gruelling talks and negotiations. There was a positive atmosphere among political leaders. This agreement also covers a framework for enhancing political, economic, cultural and scientific relations."