Australian forces in Iraq congratulated; Labor hiding

“The Labor Government’s Department of Defence media release recognising the valuable contribution of Australian forces in Iraq shows that their policy is wrong headed,” Sophie Mirabella, the Federal Member for Indi, said today.

In the announcement, Labor’s Department of Defence announced that Australian soldiers have been paid a surprise visit by US Army General David Petraeus, the commander of Multinational Force in Iraq, who traveled from his base in Baghdad to Tallil Airbase, to see for himself the work of Australian forces in the area.

Further, Labor’s Department of Defence reported:

“Australian forces have helped enormously with the development of Iraqi security forces in Dhi Qar Province and also in Al Muthanna,” General Petraeus said. “It’s been a privilege to soldier with those who come from Australia and we are very grateful for the contribution that they’ve made here.”

“Given that Australian forces are being recognised internationally as having helped enormously to improve security in liberated Iraq, Kevin Rudd should reconsider his policy to remove them,” Mrs Mirabella said.

“Notably, the Department of Defence issued the media release under its own name, rather than the name of any Minister. Does the Minister for Defence not welcome this international recognition of the brave sacrifices and contribution of Australian soldiers?”

“Further, the new Labor Government should listen to the advice of Brigadier Andrew Nikolic, who declared that “Australia’s operations in Southern Iraq over the past four years have helped bring stability to the Iraqi people.”

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