Iraqi security taking over 2nd province

[Barrett808]

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060831/ap_on_re_mi_ea/iraq_security_handover
By BUSHRA JUHI, Associated Press Writer

BAGHDAD, Iraq - Iraqi forces will take over security of a southern province from coalition troops next month, and will have control of most of the country by the end of the year, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki said Thursday.

Dhi Qar will be the second province to come under the full control of Iraqi troops. British troops handed over control of southern Muthana province in July.

"This year will witness the handing over of other provinces and we hope that by the end of the year, our security forces will take over most of the Iraqi provinces," al-Maliki said.

"This makes us optimistic and proud because we managed to fulfilled our promise. We were able ... to develop the abilities of our forces," he said. "This gives us the feeling that we are close to taking over the whole security file of the country, God's willing."

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http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060831/ap_on_re_mi_ea/iraq_security_handover