US, IRAQ AGREE ON EVENTUAL DRAW DOWN OF US TROOPS IN IRAQ.

In a statement issued after the June 11 Strategic Dialogue meeting between US and Iraq diplomatic delegations by video conference, the US side agreed that “over the coming months the U.S. would continue reducing forces from Iraq and discuss with the Government of Iraq the status of remaining forces as both countries turn their focus towards developing a bilateral security relationship based on strong mutual interests.” The US side also agreed that it is not seeking permanent bases in Iraq.