Iraq receives first diplomatic visit from Arab head of state since 2003

Jordan's King Abdullah met with Iraqi Prime Minister al-Maliki Monday in the first visit to Iraq by an Arab head of state since 2003. AFP:

Jordan's King Abdullah II held talks with Iraqi leaders on Monday on the first visit to Iraq by an Arab head of state since the 2003 US-led invasion and fall of Saddam Hussein.

The monarch went immediately on arrival in the Iraqi capital into talks with Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki before meeting Vice President Adel Abdel Mahdi, officials said.

Discussions focused on means "to improve bilateral relations in all fields" and were "frank and positive," a foreign ministry statement said. Maliki hailed the ties between the neighbours.

"This visit will open a new page in relations between the two countries which will help to maintain the stability and security in Iraq and all the region," Maliki said.

This is positive news for all who want to see Iraq succeed. Maybe that's why McClatchy hasn't reported on it. UPDATE: McClatchy article on the Abdullah visit by Leila Fadel is here - posted approx 1:45 PM Pacific Time. As with most Fadel pieces, she included jabs at Abdullah and Bush, and praise for the superior treatment -- red carpet, etc.-- Ahmadinejad received on his earlier visit to Iraq. I recommend you avoid the McClatchy piece unless you have the stomach for pro-Ahmadinejad garbage. Photo credit: AFP
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Hat tip: Gateway Pundit

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