Press Release (2004)134 8 Oct. 2004

NATO Nations agree next step in implementing training in Iraq Background NATO’s assistance to Iraq Multimedia 08/10/2004 - NATO High resolution photos of the visit to NATO by Lieutenant General David Petraeus, US Multi-National Security Transition Commander for Iraq 08/10/2004 - NATO Press point by Lieutenant General David Petraeus and Major General Hilderink on NATO's Training Implementation mission in Iraq (.MP3/14075kb) The NAC has agreed on a Concept of Operations for substantially enchancing NATO's assistance to the Iraqi Interim Government with the training of its security forces, as well as the coordination of offers of training and equipment. This approval follows the agreement reached by the Allies on 22 September on political guidance to NATO Military Authorities on the further implementation of the decision by Heads of State and Government to assist the government of Iraq with the training of its security forces. The CONOPS provides a pragmatic and graduated approach and allows for a distinct NATO mission. The NAC has approved the CONOPS as the basis for substantially enhancing the NATO Training Mission in Iraq, and tasks the NMAs to develop an Operational Plan for approval. Lieutenant General David Petraeus, Commander of the Multinational Force training effort, is now also dual-hatted as the head of the NATO training mission. The NATO Training Implementation Mission was deployed to Iraq in August and has been conducting training of Iraqi Headquarters personnel since then.

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