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Iraq, US agree on most points in relation deal

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-07-14 21:53

BAGHDAD  -- Iraq and the United States had agreed on most points in an envisaged bilateral relation deal, Iraqi media reported Monday.

Hassan al-Saneed, a lawmaker from the leading Shiite bloc of Unified Iraqi Alliance, was quoted by the Voice of Iraq as saying that disagreement had largely subsided and the two sides had agreed on many points.

Related readings:  Iraq insists on withdrawal timetable for US troops  US-Iraq security pact remains under negotation  US to send 33,000 troops to Iraq as replacement  Battle shapes up over future of US role in Iraq

The Iraqi proposal consists of three aspects: cultural, economic and educational strategic cooperation, a timetable for the withdrawal of foreign troops and cooperation and coordination with Iraq which is required ahead of anti-terror military operations.

Regarding the legal jurisdiction over US servicemen in Iraq, he said while a US serviceman would be subject to the US laws while in camp, further talks will be needed on how to apply Iraqi laws to a US soldier outside his outpost.

The talks over a long-term relationship, which started in March, aim among other things to grant the US forces a legal basis after the UN mandate expires at the end of this year.

The haggling over the status of future US troops in Iraq, however, has brought into question whether they would meet a nearer deadline at the end of July and a longer one at year's end.

Facing growing pressure at home for upholding sovereignty and national interests, Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki has demanded that a timetable for the pullout of US troops be included.

Given their disputes, Iraq and the United States reportedly are trying to reach a short-term deal on the security issue.