US Vice President Joe Biden spoke Friday with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and congratulated the Iraqi people on their participation in the parliamentary elections.

Biden emphasized the importance of a new parliament acting to pull the country together given the many challenges confronting Iraq as the two men discussed the security situation in Anbar province.  

The US official stressed the importance of pursuing a holistic approach that includes political outreach as well as security measures consistent with the goal of gaining local support and cooperation.   

He welcomed initiatives that are now underway to mobilize the population against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), and strongly urged the Government of Iraq to ensure that their difficult fight against terrorism is conducted in a manner that protects the civilian population and adheres to the rule of law.  

The two leaders reaffirmed the long-term partnership between Iraq and the United States pursuant to the Strategic Framework Agreement, including their commitment to coordination in the fight against ISIL, which represents a threat to the entire region.