U.S. EMBASSY – BAGHDAD
News Release
For Immediate Release
March  20, 2008
          
20080320
                           
Phone:  (914) 360-6452
Iraqna:  07901-819-314
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JOINT STATEMENT

BY US EMBASSY BAGHDAD AND MULTI-NATIONAL FORCES – IRAQ ON THE APPROVAL OF THE PROVINCIAL POWERS LAW

We congratulate the Iraqi Presidency Council on its agreement to withdraw its objection to the Provincial Powers Law after consultation with legislators and political blocs.  The way is now cleared for publication of the law in the Official Gazette, whereupon it goes into effect. 

The Provincial Powers Law represents an important step in what is likely to be an ongoing democratic effort to maintain a uniquely Iraqi balance between central government authority and the preservation of local empowerment.  We welcome this important step forward and extend our warm congratulations to the Iraqi people and their elected representatives.  

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