Defense Minister Meets His US Counterpart

BAGHDAD / NINA / The Iraqi Defense Minister Khaled al-Obeidi said that the reform approach and re- building the military establishment in Iraq is progressing in deliberate steps. Obeidi in his meeting with his US counterpart, Ashton Carter - according to a ministry statement today said Iraq represents a first line of defense for the security of the Middle East and its fight against the forces of terrorism to protect the interests of the civilized world. The defense minister stressed that according to this fact and reality, the international community must contribute in rebuilding the liberated areas. / End