Biden predicts 'hard road ahead' in Iraq

BAGHDAD, July 3 (UPI) -- U.S. Vice President Joe Biden emerged from meetings with Iraqi leaders Friday predicting "a hard road ahead" to bring about long-term stability to the country.

Biden, who met for about an hour with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki during a two-day diplomatic trip to Iraq, said they had made progress in fostering political reconciliation and a spirit of partnership after the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraqi cities Tuesday.

"The president and I appreciate that Iraq has traveled a great distance over the past year, but there is a hard road ahead if Iraq is going to find lasting peace and stability," Biden said. "Its not over yet."

For his part, Maliki acknowledged "the common partnership and common efforts" between the United States and Iraq in defeating al-Qaida and praised an "atmosphere of dialogue and positive attitude" between the United States and Iraq.

"What we have seen (in the past) week … confirms the credibility of the agreements that are in place between Iraq and the United States," he said. "These agreements are being faithfully committed to."

The prime minister said the two countries should work together to strengthen Iraq's economy, military and democratic government as well as cultural and educational institutions.

"I have seen very clearly the keen determination from the vice president and his administration to support Iraq on a political level and in the democratic area and a great readiness to give us or to lend anywhere we ask a lending hand and support," Maliki said.

The White House said the unannounced two-day diplomatic mission was intended to "re-establish contact" with Iraqi leaders and prod them toward settling internal disputes over oil revenues and political power-sharing.

Evidence of deep-seated division could be seen on the streets, as hundreds of protesters chanted and burned American flags, and in recent days, violence has racked the country.

Biden got in some family time Friday morning when he had breakfast with his son, Beau, an Army captain in Iraq.