Iraq's Prime Minister Visits Mosul

Photo By Sgt. Dennis Gravelle | The Prime Minister of Iraq, Al Maliki, arrives at Forward Operating Base Diamondback, Mosul, Iraq, Sept. 4. Once the PM landed he was greeted by elected leaders of the Ninevah Province and Iraqi Security Force personnel. He was then transported to Provincial Hall to hold a meeting with the leaders. Photo by Sgt. Dennis Gravelle, 138th MPAD  

MOSUL, IRAQ

09.06.2006

Story by Sgt. Dennis Gravelle 

138th Public Affairs Detachment

by Sgt. Dennis Gravelle
138th MPAD

MOSUL, Iraq (September 5, 2006) –The Prime Minister of Iraq, Nouri al Maliki, was greeted by elected leaders and Iraqi Security Force leaders of the Ninevah Province at Forward Operating Base Diamondback, Mosul, Iraq Sept. 4.

The Iraqi PM made the visit to Mosul to meet with local leaders and discuss issues at Mosul's Provincial Hall.

"The purpose of his visit was to make contact with provincial authorities, the Provincial Council, traditional leaders, opinion leaders, and key security forces commanders to better understand provincial citizens' concerns and priorities," stated Provincial Team Leader, Dr. James Knight. "More than 100 such were individuals present, not including press and security details."

Maliki and the other dignitaries were then escorted from Mosul Airfield by ISF to Provincial Hall where they discussed local issues such as reconstruction and security. Maliki also stressed that he was determined to address the needs of the people and assure national unity in Iraq.

According to Knight, the PM noted the importance of Iraqi unity and equality of all Iraqis, as well as the urgency of economic growth.

Local leaders were able to ask the PM about the general improvements in security in Mosul and Tal'Afar and the effectiveness of ISF. Local leaders also brought up the positive relationship between the Governor's office and Provincial Council, and briefed the PM on the present fuel shortages, and water shortages in Mosul and Tal Afar.

Maliki promised the elected leaders that he would bring all their concerns to each relevant ministry. This visit marks the first time that Maliki has met with the leaders of Ninewah in an official capacity.

• Date Taken: 09.06.2006
• Date Posted: 09.06.2006 14:14
• Story ID: 7640
• Location: MOSUL, IQ