Iraq - World leaders welcome new government

As Annan put it, "the first constitutionally elected government of Iraq", that is.

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -- President Bush vowed on Saturday that Washington would stand by Baghdad as he joined world leaders in welcoming Iraq's new government.

"The United States and freedom-loving nations around the world will stand with Iraq as it takes its place among the world's democracies and as an ally in the war on terror," Bush said in a written statement.

Bush was the latest in a string of world leaders to welcome the formation Saturday of the new Iraqi government -- the first full-term administration since Saddam Hussein was ousted in 2003 in a U.S.-led invasion.

The birth of a nation is a painful and yet joyful event, as all births are. The Iraqis have held 3 successful elections, adopted a constitution and now have a constitutionally elected government of the people, by the people and for the people. Some quagmire, eh?

So, here's a toast to the brave, proud and free people of Iraq! Here's to victory for the Iraqi people and defeat for the terrorists!


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