Maliki, US Chargé d'affaires Discuss Weapons Monopoly in Baghdad

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Nuri al-Maliki, leader of the State of Law Coalition, met Sunday in Baghdad with Joshua Harris, the United States Chargé d'affaires in Iraq. The two discussed limiting weapons to state institutions and regional developments, according to a statement from al-Maliki's office. The meeting addressed efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and ongoing political talks between the two countries. Officials also reviewed the political negotiations regarding the remaining cabinet positions pending a vote. Al-Maliki emphasized the importance of consolidating political and security stability in the country. Al-Maliki called for efforts to preserve state sovereignty and ensure weapons remain under the control of official institutions. Both sides affirmed their commitment to the provisions of the Strategic Framework Agreement between Iraq and the United States. Recent steps taken regarding security structures were also discussed during the talks, the statement said.