Ryan C. Crocker And General David H. Petraeus: JOINT STATEMENT On Anbar Iraq Transfer UPDATE With John McCain Statement
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Monday, 01 September 2008
U.S. EMBASSY – BAGHDAD
JOINT STATEMENT
By Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker and General David H. Petraeus
on the Transfer of Security Responsibility for Anbar Province
The United States and Multi-National Force-Iraq welcome the transfer of security in Anbar Province to Iraqi responsibility as a positive step on the path to Iraq’s self-reliance.
Anbar is the eleventh province to be transferred to Iraqi security responsibility. The first province transferred to Government of Iraqi security control was Muthanna in July 2006, followed by Dhi Qar, An Najaf, Maysan, Irbil, Sulaymaniyah, Dahuk, Karbala, and most recently Basrah in December 2007.
The transfer of security responsibility in Anbar is significant because it is geographically the largest province in Iraq and borders three countries.
Iraqi Security Forces in Anbar have been operating independently for the past two months. Working with local government and military officials, they have demonstrated their readiness to assume responsibility for the provincial security of Al Anbar. Today this responsibility is theirs.
The transition of responsibility for security in Anbar Province is an important step. The provincial and military leadership in Anbar will have to work cooperatively in order to attain the sustainable security necessary for long term economic prosperity. We will assist as requested. The United States and Multi-National Force-Iraq congratulate the Government of Iraq on this important milestone.
Here is a Statement From John McCain:
STATEMENT FROM JOHN MCCAIN ON TODAY’S HANDOVER OF RESPONSIBILITY IN ANBAR PROVINCE
For Immediate Release Contact: Press Office
Monday, September 1, 2008
ARLINGTON, VA — Today, U.S. Senator John McCain issued the following statement regarding the handover of responsibility in Anbar province:
“Today’s handover of responsibility from the U.S. to Iraq in Anbar province is a solemn and proud moment for the Iraqi people and for the people of the United States. We have sacrificed much together to make this day possible. Eighteen months ago, many people considered Anbar lost. It was the hard core of the insurgency, the place where Iraqis were thought most supportive of the insurgency and least willing to accept the new political order a democratic Iraq promised.
“But the people of Anbar and their leaders chose a different course, and the surge I advocated supported them. Violence has dropped by over 80 percent in Anbar. Sunni sheiks advocate provincial elections that will give them greater representation in government. Iraqi people are gaining the normal lives they yearn for. Together, we are succeeding in Anbar.
“Today, we should commemorate the political courage of Iraqis in Anbar who stood up to lead the Awakening. The Iraqi Security Forces are leading operations, with our forces in support. America must continue to help them succeed. Our Marines have done a superb job fighting alongside Iraqis to defeat Al Queda, supporting the positive political developments, and helping rebuild Anbar. So have the soldiers of the 1st Brigade Combat Team of the 3rd Infantry Division, and the sailors of the 22nd Naval Construction Regiment. Thank you for your service.
“We must not forget that there is still work to be done in Anbar, and throughout Iraq. Political reconciliation needs to be furthered. Economic opportunity needs to be expanded. Reconstruction needs to advance, funded primarily by the government of Iraq. Provincial elections need to be held. And there are seven more Iraqi provinces yet to be returned to provincial Iraqi control.”
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