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Iraqi PM: 'Thank you America'

Sep-23-2004 » Filed Under: Iraq News

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WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Interim Iraqi Prime Minister Ayad Allawi, laying out his government's security, economic, and political aspirations Thursday to a joint meeting of Congress, said elections for a transitional national assembly will be held in January, as scheduled.

"Elections will occur in Iraq on time in January," Allawi promised.

He mentioned the doubts many have expressed about Iraq's achievements over the months and said, "We will prove them wrong again."

He said the insurgents and terrorists "will do all they can" to disrupt the elections.

"There will be no greater blow" to the government's enemies than when the elections take place, he said.

He acknowledged the balloting won't be perfect, pointing to early elections in other nations, but promised: "They will take place and they will be free and fair" and they will be "a giant step" in Iraq's "evolution."

Allawi talked about progress in rebuilding the country and repeatedly took note of the contribution of Americans, the other members of the coalition and the United Nations.

"We are succeeding in Iraq.... Thank you, America," he said.

"We know Americans have made enormous sacrifices.... We promise you your sacrifices are not in vain."


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