Bush praises Iraq reconstruction efforts

WASHINGTON , Oct. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush said the United States is making progress with reconstruction efforts in Iraq.

"We are having success in Iraq," the president said Wednesday in a statement following a video teleconference with provincial reconstruction team leaders and brigade combat commanders in Iraq. "And one of the main reasons why is we're implementing an innovative strategy that combines our military with civilian expertise to help people at the grassroots level build a society that will lay the foundation for peace."

Bush praised efforts by personnel from the State Department, Justice Department, Agriculture Department, the U.S. Agency for International Development and Coalition forces to improve governance and economic development in Iraq.

The Ninewa Provincial Reconstruction Team said it has secured funding for 39 reconstruction projects that will employ 6,000 young Iraqis and distribute 200 metric tons of wheat seed to farmers in drought-afflicted areas. The Maysan team said it distributed food and clothing to more than 1,000 residents during Ramadan this year and the Sadr City team said it helped provide 265,000 school uniforms and backpacks for students, rehabilitated health clinics and supports a women's clinic that provides medical assistance, education and domestic violence counseling.