Iraq says dialogue with armed factions in late stages, to conclude by end of September

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Iraqi government's spokesman said dialogue with armed factions has reached an advanced stage and will be completed before September 30. Cabinet spokesman Haydar al-Obaidi told reporters that the Council of Ministers will vote on the program and performance budget in September. Al-Obaidi said National Security Adviser Kazim al-Zaydi rejected a request to postpone the withdrawal timetable for International Coalition forces. Al-Zaydi is scheduled to visit Paris and Berlin in September, the spokesman added. On staffing, al-Obaidi said the file on converting contract employees into permanent civil service positions is under review. He added that the talks with the armed factions are proceeding in line with the set timetable, without elaborating further.