Readout of the Vice President's Calls On Iraq

The Vice President spoke today to U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Chris Hill, U.S. Forces-Iraq Commanding General Ray Odierno, Iraqi President Jalal Talabani, and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki on recent developments in Iraq.  In his calls with Talabani and al-Maliki, the Vice President conveyed sympathy and condolences for the victims of recent attacks.  The Vice President expressed confidence in the capabilities of the Iraqi Security Forces, reiterated U.S. readiness to provide all necessary support and stated his conviction that, notwithstanding these attempts at intimidation, the Iraqis will not be deterred from moving forward. The Vice President also expressed respect for Iraqi sovereignty during the ongoing government formation process and encouraged all sides to work together to form an inclusive and representative government.