Iraq has enduring partner in US: Obama

The withdrawal of almost all U.S. troops from Iraq by December 31 has created uncertainty at a time the region remains roiled by the Arab Spring, and amid fear Syrian instability could spread sectarian strife into neighboring Iraq.


But Obama told a press conference with Iraqi President Nuri al-Maliki Washington remains a strong Middle East presence.


"As we end this war and as Iraq faces its future, the Iraqi people must know that you will not stand alone. You have a strong and enduring partner in the United States of America."


Fulfilling a vow to Americans weary of the nearly nine year old war as he campaigns for re-election in 2012, Obama's order for the troops to leave came after a deal to keep thousands of U.S. trainers on the ground failed on the issue of immunity from prosecution in Iraq.


Almost 4,500 U.S. troops have died since President George W. Bush ordered the invasion in 2003, based on claims of weapons of mass destruction and al Qaeda ties that turned out not to exist.


Obama and Maliki later visited Arlington National Cemetery for fallen American service members, and jointly laid a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknowns as the U.S. and Iraqi national anthems were played.


Republicans criticize the president for not pushing harder to have some forces stay, amid concern about a power vacuum in the country that may be exploited by Iran, and as violence in neighboring Syria fans fear of regional sectarian strife.


The departure of U.S. troops also raises questions about the ability of Iraqi security forces to keep the peace in a country still scarred by a bitter 2006-2007 civil war in which thousands died in sectarian and ethnic fighting.


"After nearly nine years, our war in Iraq ends this month," Obama told journalists after meeting with Maliki at the White House on Monday.


"In coming days, the last American soldiers will cross the border out of Iraq with honour, and with their heads held high," the president said.


"We are here to mark the end of this war, to honour the sacrifices of all those who made this day possible and to turn the page," Obama said, adding it was time to "begin a new chapter in the history between our countries. A normal relationship between sovereign nations. An equal partnership based on mutual interests and mutual respect."


Obama also told Maliki, who was accompanied by senior Iraqi leaders, that the United States, which invaded Iraq in 2003, would stand by the country in the coming years.


"As we end this war, and as Iraq faces its future, the Iraqi people must know that you will not stand alone. You have a strong and enduring partner in the United States of America," the US leader said.