With the US combat operations in Iraq officially ended as of Tuesday, August 31, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki spoke optimistically about the future of his country as he highlighted the freedom of Iraqis in being able to draw their own future.

He also emphasized the importance of working together to create a stable society as he marked the occasion by stating, “It's a day that Iraq gained back its sovereignty …I promise you the sectarian war will not return. We will not allow it. Iraqis will live as loving brothers.”

US President Barack Obama also spoke in acknowledgement of the human and financial tolls of conflict as he paid tribute to both the fallen and returning soldiers. 

Obama:Two weeks ago, America’s final combat brigade in Iraq journeyed home in the pre-dawn darkness.  Over seven years before, American troops and coalition partners had fought their way across similar highways, but this time no shots were fired.  It was just a convoy of brave Americans, making their way home. 

Of course, the soldiers left much behind.  Some were teenagers when the war began.  Many have served multiple tours of duty, far from families who bore a heroic burden of their own, enduring the absence of a husband’s embrace or a mother’s kiss.

Our respectful congratulations, Iraq and United States, for these decisions in favor of diplomacy and emerging peace. A big welcome home to the returning US troops as we send our best wishes for the flourishing and unified future of the warmhearted Iraqi people.

http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2010/08/20108311332701528.html
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2010/08/31/remarks-president-address-nation-end-combat-
operations-iraq
http://english.aljazeera.net/news/americas/2010/09/20109101446128150.html