U.S. to discuss Iraq with Iran and Syria at regional conference

The U.S. accepted an invitation yesterday to join Iran and Syria, among other Iraqi neighbors, at a regional conference in March and April organized solely by the Iraqi government, The Washington Post reported today. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice announced the development in remarks to the Senate Appropriations Committee yesterday, by saying, “I would note that the Iraqi government has invited all of its neighbors, including Syria and Iran, to attend both of these regional meetings. We hope that all governments will seize this opportunity to improve the relations with Iraq and to work for peace and stability in the region.”

The first meeting, to be held in March, will include ambassadors and permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. The meeting in April will include foreign ministers and representatives of the Group of Eight industrialized countries. In regards to the agenda, State Department Spokesman Sean McCormack said, “Security is clearly an important issue for the Iraqis. It’s going to be at the top of the agenda.” Roadside bombs “are at the top of our list. This isn’t, however, our meeting,” he added.

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