Cheney seeks many changes in Iraq

BAGHDAD, March 17 (UPI) -- Exceptional change has occurred in Iraq in the 10 months since his last visit, U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney said Monday.

"I can sense as a result of the progress that's been made since then that there have been some phenomenal changes, in terms of the overall situation, both with respect to the security situation ... as well as with respect to political developments here in Iraq," Cheney said during a public appearance with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.

Cheney made an unannounced visit to Iraq as part of his tour of the Middle East.

Iraqi lawmakers have worked on legislation "that will be vital, in terms of shaping the future for Iraq," he said. "And without question, there has been dramatic improvement in the security situation, as well."

Maliki called the meeting an opportunity "to discuss a variety of important and essential issues relating to the nature of the relationship between the two countries" now and in the future.

Cheney began his trip to the Middle East Sunday. His official itinerary includes stops in Oman, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Israel and the West Bank. Among discussion topics are high energy prices and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.