AFP news agency quoted an unnamed Australian diplomat as saying that Howard made the commitment today during talks with Iraqi Prime Minister Ibrahim Al-Ja'fari.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Al-Ja'fari said the Australian troops are playing a "very important role."
Australia, a strong ally of the United States, has about 750 troops in Iraq.
Howard has refused to spell out a timetable for withdrawing troops from Iraq, saying it depends on a range of factors, including the ability of local security forces to work effectively against the insurgency, and the ability of the democratic structures to function.
(AFP)
Related Story:
Does Britain's Secret Memo On Iraqi Withdrawal Indicate A Weakening Of Resolve?
For RFE/RL's full coverage of developments in Iraq, see "The New Iraq"
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Al-Ja'fari said the Australian troops are playing a "very important role."
Australia, a strong ally of the United States, has about 750 troops in Iraq.
Howard has refused to spell out a timetable for withdrawing troops from Iraq, saying it depends on a range of factors, including the ability of local security forces to work effectively against the insurgency, and the ability of the democratic structures to function.
(AFP)
Related Story:
Does Britain's Secret Memo On Iraqi Withdrawal Indicate A Weakening Of Resolve?
For RFE/RL's full coverage of developments in Iraq, see "The New Iraq"
