Statement on Transfer of Power in Iraq

Pelosi Statement on Transfer of Power in Iraq

Washington, D.C.-House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the transfer of limited authority from the Coalition Provisional Authority to the Interim Government of Iraq:

"Hopefully, the transfer of authority to the Interim Government of Iraq brings the world closer to the day when freely-elected Iraqi leaders will be fully in control of Iraq's affairs and fully responsible for Iraq's future.

"I salute the courage of the members of the Interim Government, particularly President Ghazi Al-Yawer and Prime Minister Iyad Allawi, as they seek to address the imposing security challenges that grip their country. The success of their government will be measured by how effectively and how quickly security and stability can be brought to Iraq.

"As we wish the members of the Interim Government well in the undertaking that will require so much of our attention and assistance in the coming months, it is also appropriate to reflect on the costs of the war thus far in lives lost and wounds suffered, and in the billions of dollars spent. The sacrifices of the dead, the wounded, and their families, must always be in our thoughts as we take stock of what may be achieved and at what cost."