American Security Council Foundation (ASCF)

Mr. Obama also said he is watching closely for Iraq's parliament to pass a law to provide the legal basis for a national election in January.

 

"We are very interested, both of us, in making sure that Iraq has an election law that is completed on time, so that elections can take place on time in January," Mr. Obama said. "That is consistent with the transition that has been taking place."

 

Before meeting with the president, Mr. Maliki attended a U.S.-Iraq business investment conference in Washington with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

 

The Iraqi leader, with support from the Obama administration, is trying to persuade American businesses to invest in Iraq and help the country rebuild.

 

Mr. Maliki said U.S.-Iraq relations have moved beyond security issues, and are now dealing with trade and commerce.

 

"Our relations today have moved along and are not only confined to security cooperation, but today have moved to economic development, to providing prosperity for the Iraqi people."

 

Mr. Obama said he was also glad to expand the discussions to include opportunities for the two countries to develop a healthy trade relationship.

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