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Biden Makes Surprise Trip to Iraq

(AP)
Vice President Joe Biden has landed in Iraq for an unannounced, two-day visit with U.S. troops and the Iraqi leadership.

According to a pool report, Biden plans to "try to reestablish contact with Iraqi leaders and try to help foster efforts at political reconciliation" during the trip.

Biden will meet with Iraqi President Jalal Talabani, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and Speaker of the Council of Representatives Ayad al-Samarrai.

In a release, the White House said Biden "will reiterate the United States' commitment to fully implement the Security Agreement and the Strategic Framework Agreement and to carry out President Obama's plan to draw down U.S. forces."

"He will discuss with Iraq's leaders the importance of achieving the political progress that is necessary to ensure the nation's long-term stability," the White House added.

This is Biden's first trip to Iraq as vice president, though he visited the country in January before being sworn in.

His visit comes on the heels of the U.S. military over security responsibilities in cities to the Iraqis.

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