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Bremer Hands Over Iraqi Sovereignty Two Days Before Deadline
06.28.04 (2:26 am) [edit]
Iraq became a sovereign country today, 15 months after the U.S.-led invasion of the country and two days before the June 30 deadline for its return to sovereignty.

Officials said Allawi's decision to move up the power transfer was to demonstrate to insurgents and the Iraqi people that the government was capable and ready to assume control. Both President Bush and British Prime Minister Tony Blair were informed of the decision on Sunday while in Turkey for a NATO summit, a senior administration official said.

Bush was pleased with the decision to move up the transfer date and was confident in the new government, the official said. Bush and Blair were expected to publicly comment in the afternoon.

Bush had already sent an official letter to Allawi formally requesting diplomatic relations with the government of Iraq — signaling that the United States recognizes Iraq as sovereign.

The surprise transfer of power occurred in a small ceremony in Baghdad's Green Zone. L. Paul Bremer who has overseen the Coalition Provisional Authority since the fall of Saddam, signed the legal papers in the presence of Allawi and presented them to the chief justice of Iraq, Midhat al-Mahmoud. About a half dozen Iraqi and coalition officials were also in attendance.

I was on my shift when the news broke. This is a truly historic time for all of us. More to come!

posted by: Shark99 (reply)
post date: 06.28.04 (3:04 am)

This is indeed an historic moment. I wish the people of Iraq the best of luck.


posted by: ScarlettGKPi (reply)
post date: 06.28.04 (6:51 am)

Yes this is a very historic moment and I pray for this country as they continue to rebuild their war torn nation. Kendra, I hope you are still doing well dear and as always, take care.