Talabani congratulates election victors

BAGHDAD, Feb. 9 (UPI) -- Iraqi officials offered praise for the winners in the January provincial elections but called for solidarity among party leaders to move the country forward.

Iraq held provincial elections in 14 of the 18 provinces Jan. 31. Though the State of Law list backed by Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki scored well in many parts of the country, the margin of victory suggested several blocs may need to form coalitions at the provincial level.

Iraqi President Jalal Talabani said the elections marked a major milestone in Iraq's path toward democracy. He also praised Iraqi security forces, international monitors, election officials and the Iraqi people for a successful voting experience, Iraqi satellite channel al-Sumaria reported Monday.

Meanwhile, Maliki met with his top military commanders in a weekend session, commending the ability of the national security forces to set aside sectarian and ethnic divisions for the sake of the country.

Iraqi Defense Minister Abdul Qadir Obeidi told the prime minister during the meeting that his forces were preparing themselves for their larger role in Iraq as U.S. and international forces pull back to their bases.

Source: United Press International (UPI).
Link: http://www.upi.com/Emerging_Threats/2009/02/09/Talabani_congratulates_election_victors/UPI-37081234220673/.