Veep Talk: Prime Minister Haider Al-Abadi of Iraq

The Vice President spoke today with Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Al-Abadi to discuss the latest political and security developments in Iraq. The Vice President welcomed the Prime Minister's political reform efforts and reaffirmed continued U.S. support for steps, in concert with Iraqi political leaders, to strengthen transparency, national unity, and accountability.  The Vice President also underscored the critical importance of sustaining  momentum in the fight against ISIL and reviewed ongoing U.S. efforts to support Iraqi Security Forces.  The Vice President commended the Prime Minister for engaging constructively with the IMF to address fiscal challenges and unlock access to international financial assistance. 

Veep Meet and Greet: President Michelle Bachelet

The Vice President met with Chilean President Michelle Bachelet today at the Naval Observatory, where the two leaders underscored the strong bilateral partnership between the United States and Chile on issues related to trade, economic development, and democracy and human rights.  The Vice President praised Chile's constructive role in addressing a number of regional challenges in the Americas, including its support for the development of the Northern Triangle countries of Central America and its vital role as a facilitator of the Colombian peace process.  The two leaders also discussed the status of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti and the need for the international community to support a free and fair election process in Haiti in order to advance the country's political stability and economic recovery.  The Vice President and President Bachelet agreed that deeper cooperation on critical issues in the region will be essential to building a stable and prosperous hemisphere.

Source: The White House, Office of the Vice President