macy, the President should convey as much detail as possible about the substance of
these exchanges in order to keep the American people, the Iraqi people, and the coun-
tries in the region well informed.
RECOMMENDATION 20: If the Iraqi government demonstrates political will and
makes substantial progress toward the achievement of milestones on national recon-
ciliation, security, and governance, the United States should make clear its willingness
to continue training, assistance, and support for Iraq’s security forces, and to continue
political, military, and economic support for the Iraqi government. As Iraq becomes
more capable of governing, defending, and sustaining itself, the U.S. military and civil-
ian presence in Iraq can be reduced.
RECOMMENDATION 21: If the Iraqi government does not make substantial
progress toward the achievement of milestones on national reconciliation, security, and
governance, the United States should reduce its political, military, or economic sup-
port for the Iraqi government.
RECOMMENDATION 22: The President should state that the United States does
not seek permanent military bases in Iraq. If the Iraqi government were to request a
temporary base or bases, then the U.S. government could consider that request as it
would in the case of any other government.
RECOMMENDATION 23: The President should restate that the United States does
not seek to control Iraq’s oil.
Milestones for IraqThe government of Iraq understands that dramatic steps are necessary to avert a down-
ward spiral and make progress. Prime Minister Maliki has worked closely in consul-
tation with the United States and has put forward the following milestones in the key
areas of national reconciliation, security and governance:
NATIONAL RECONCILIATION
By the end of 2006–early 2007:
- Approval of the Provincial Election Law and setting an election date
- Approval of the Petroleum Law
- Approval of the De-Baathification Law
- Approval of the Militia Law
By March 2007: - A referendum on constitutional amendments (if it is necessary)
By May 2007: - Completion of Militia Law implementation
- Approval of amnesty agreement
- Completion of reconciliation efforts
By June 2007: - Provincial elections
544 IRAQ AND THE GULF WARS