Biden Arrives In Iraq

Vice President Joe Biden arrived in Iraq today to participate in a Change of Command and Change of Mission Ceremony.

With fewer than 50,000 troops, the United States military presence is set to transition from Operation Iraqi Freedom to Operation New Dawn, an advise and assist role, at the turn of the month.

In his sixth trip to Iraq, the Vice President’s visit is aimed at reinforcing the long-term U.S. commitment to Iraq. Biden is scheduled to meet with Iraqi President Jalal Talabani, Vice President Tariq al-Hashimi, Vice President Adil Abd al-Mahdi, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, leader of the Iraqiyya coalition Ayad Allawi, Chairman of the Islamic Supreme Council Ammar al-Hakim and other political leaders to discuss the latest developments in Iraq and to urge Iraqi leaders to conclude negotiations on the formation of a new government.