Embassy of the Republic of Iraq

In a formal ceremony at the Oval office of the White House on January 18, 2012, H.E. Ambassador Jabir Habeb presented his credentials to the U.S. president Barack Obama marking the official recognition as an Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to the United States.

Ambassador Habeb referred to the exceptional bilateral relations between the United States and Iraq on a broad range of issues. He emphasized the significance of strengthening and broadening the existing cooperation beyond national interests. Ambassador Habeb emphasized Iraq’s commitment towards safeguarding and promoting common democratic values and principles, while making special reference to the fact that Iraq is to remain an important partner and friend of the United States towards attaining these goals. Ambassador Habeb also expressed his desire to see a renewed spirit of cooperation as both U.S. and Iraq enter a new stage of bilateral relations.

During the meeting, President Barack Obama referred to the strong ties that exist between the United States and Iraq and praised the recent visit paid by Prime Minister Nori Al Maliky and its positive outcome. He also touched on the internal political disputes, and assured that Iraq will overcome it.

On the remarks of the presentation of the Ambassador’s letter of credence, President Obama warmly welcomed Ambassador Habeb to Washington and wished him every success in his vitally important responsibilities as Iraq’s next Ambassador to the United States. And he stated that over the last eight years, the Unites States worked closely with Iraq to establish a sovereign, self-reliant, and democratic Iraq. And despite the great challenges Iraq has achieved significant progress. Millions have cast their ballots in free elections, and Iraqis are working to build institutions that are efficient, independent, and transparent.

President Obama also mentioned, for the first time in two decades, Iraq is schedules to host the next Arab league Summit. Iraq is also forging new ties of trade and commerce regionally and internationally, and assuming its rightful place among the community of nations.  And he is willing to continue to partner with Iraq in this new chapter of relationship between the two countries to strengthen the institutions upon which Iraq’s democracy depends – free elections, a vibrant press, a strong civil society, professional police and law enforcement that upholds the rule of law, and independent judiciary that delivers justice fairly, and transparent institutions that serve all Iraqis.

President Obama warmly welcomed Ambassador Habeb to Washington and wished him every success in his high responsibilities as Iraq’s next Ambassador to the United States.

Ambassador Habeb, in his remarks to President Obama, conveyed warm greetings from both the President and the Prime Minister of Iraq to him and Mrs. Michelle Obama.