    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 47 (Monday, December 1, 2008)]
    [Page 1462]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Statement on the Approval of a Strategic Framework Agreement and a
    Status of Forces Agreement in Iraq

    November 27, 2008

        Earlier today, in another sign of progress, Iraq's Council of
    Representatives approved two agreements with the United States, a
    strategic framework agreement and a security agreement, often called a
    status of forces agreement or SOFA. The strategic framework agreement
    sets the foundation for a long-term bilateral relationship between our
    two countries, and the security agreement addresses our presence,
    activities, and withdrawal from Iraq. Today's vote affirms the growth of
    Iraq's democracy and increasing ability to secure itself. We look
    forward to a swift approval by Iraq's Presidency Council.
        Two years ago, this day seemed unlikely, but the success of the
    surge and the courage of the Iraqi people set the conditions for these
    two agreements to be negotiated and approved by the Iraqi Parliament.
    The improved conditions on the ground and the Parliamentary approval of
    these two agreements serve as a testament to the Iraqi, coalition, and
    American men and women, both military and civilian, who paved the way
    for this day.
        As the two agreements move to Iraq's Presidency Council for final
    approval, we congratulate the members of the Council of Representatives
    for coming together to approve these historic agreements that will serve
    the shared and enduring interests of both our countries and the region.

    Note: The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language
    version of this statement.