United Nations Radio

The UN Security Council voted unanimously to recognize the expiration of the mandate of the U.S-led multinational force for Iraq (MNF-1) by the end of the year.

Security Council

The council adopted a British-U.S draft recognizing the expiration of the mandate of the multinational force at the end of December 31st 2008, as requested by the Iraqi government.

Iraq's Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari told the council it is the responsibility and priority of the Iraqi government to guarantee security and stability for all Iraqis.

"The termination marks a turning point for Iraq and the end of an important era for the UN and all the contributing countries to the multi-national forces. The MNF-I have contributed has contributed vital support to the progress in building security and stability in Iraq."

Zebari says Iraq and the United States have negotiated a new security arrangement for the future bilateral partnership between the countries.
He says Iraq is also negotiating further agreements with other coalition partners.

Donn Bobb, United Nations Radio

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