At the meeting, both discussed the political and security situation in Iraq and the region and means to reinforce bilateral ties between the two friendly countries.

Maliki stressed that the post-election period shall be that of reconstruction and upgrade of services, especially at regions affected by the war against terrorism, highlighting the necessity of joint cooperation between Baghdad and Washington in all fields.

Maliki further pointed that the Iraqi people are looking forward to a strong government that can meet their legitimate aspirations, according to the Iraqi News.

On Friday (May 18), there were reports that Maliki appeared to be trying to form a bloc with Hadi al-Amiri, and others. Meanwhile a rival bloc seems to include election winner Muqtada al-Sadr and Ammar al-Hakim, and perhaps Haidar al-Abadi, according to the al-Akhbar newspaper.

Several political parties filed complaints against the results of the Iraqi parliamentary election held on May 12.

Reporter’s code: 50101