LOC22:55
19:55 GMT
WASHINGTON, Aug 31 (KUNA) -- US President Joseph Biden has expressed US support to Iraq after the recent violent clashes in Baghdad and called for a national dialogue to iron out differences among Iraqis.
This came in a phone call with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi Wednesday, according to a statement from the White House.
It noted that the US leader commended Prime Minister Kadhimi's personal leadership during escalating tensions and violence over a 24-hour period earlier this week.
He praised the performance of the Iraqi Security Forces and extended condolences to the families of those killed in the recent fighting.
"The President and the Prime Minister welcomed the return of security to the streets, and called on all Iraqi leaders to engage in a national dialogue to forge a common way forward consistent with Iraq's constitution and laws," added the statement.
The President finally offered his full support for Prime Minster Kadhimi's efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region through dialogue and diplomacy. The two leaders agreed to remain in touch over the coming weeks. (end)
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