BAGHDAD, Iraq -
President Bush assured Iraqis in a surprise visit to Baghdad on Tuesday that the United States stands with them and their new government. "It's in our interest that Iraq succeed," he said, seated alongside newly named Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.
The dramatic trip came as Bush sought to bolster support for Iraq's fledgling government and U.S. war policy at home.
"I've come to not only look you in the eye. I've also come to tell you that when America gives its word, it keeps its word," Bush told al-Maliki.
The president also was to visit U.S. troops as part of what aides said was to be a visit of just over five hours to the war-scarred country.
Bush traveled to Baghdad less than a week after a U.S. air strike killed terror chief Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. It was his second unannounced visit since the 2003 invasion that toppled
Saddam Hussein.
Al-Maliki, who didn't know Bush was in coming until five minutes before they met, said that Iraq was "determined to succeed, and we have to defeat terrorists and defeat all the hardships."
"God willing, all the suffering will be over. And all the soldiers will return to their country with our gratitude for what they have offered, the sacrifice," al-Maliki said through a translator.
Bush made it clear, however, that a U.S. military presence now at about 132,000 troops would continue for awhile.
"I have expressed our country's desire to work with you, but I appreciate you recognize the fact that the future of the country is in your hands," Bush said.
"The decisions you and your cabinet make will determine as to whether or not your country succeeds, can govern itself, can defend itself, can sustain itself," he added.
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Well it's kinda a surprise to see the President in Iraq, but pleasantly one to be sure. Now that they have the a government that is functioning in relatively reliable manner. There will be violence in the future, I don't think anyone has said otherwise, but we must stay the course. It took 10 yrs to pacify the Philippines when we took them and people are acting like we have never been in a fight before. We will win be patient.
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5 comments:
I wonder if the Iraqi civilians will appreciate the gesture and get to saving their country from the a&%holes.
I liked the speech, ever notice how much better he speaks when he talks to the troops?
he is a great speaker in front of the troops, he is so humble in front of them
"The decisions you and your cabinet make will determine as to whether or not your country succeeds, can govern itself, can defend itself, can sustain itself," he added.
GUNZ-That's just it...They are who they are. Once we pull out that country is going to collapse within. You can't change their mindset. I agree with you that yes we are winning, but once we pull out it's going back to same old thing, not overnight, but in due time. There are too many different tribes over there with different agendas. The only thing they know is violence as oppossed to diplomacy amongst themselves.
Great read...enjoyed it.
I agree with Gunz. When almost every decision they make is base upon their cult, it's pretty obviuos what will happen when we leave.
"I've come to not only look you in the eye. I've also come to tell you that when America gives its word, it keeps its word," ..doesn't that say it all?!..:)
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