Washington, DC - On October 14, Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan met in Baghdad with newly elected Speaker of the Iraqi Council of Representatives Mohammad al-Halbusi. The Deputy Secretary congratulated Speaker Halbusi on his election and together they committed to continue to build a strong and multi-dimensional relationship, particularly with respect to trade, finance, political, security, and diplomatic cooperation.

Deputy Secretary Sullivan reiterated the United States’ support for the Government of Iraq’s efforts to facilitate the safe and voluntary return of internally displaced persons, particularly those from vulnerable religious and ethnic minority communities. Finally, the Deputy Secretary reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with the people of Iraq through economic development, cultural exchange, and government relations.