London, Dec 16 (IANS) As the US military formally started its withdrawal from Iraq Thursday, British foreign secretary William Hague said it "closes an important chapter" in the country's recent history.
"Today marks the withdrawal of US military forces from Iraq, and closes an important chapter in Iraq's recent history," Xinhua quoted the British foreign secretary as saying while paying tribute to those who died or were injured during the mission.
He also assured of Britain's continued cooperation with the Iraqi government after the US withdrawal.
"Looking to the future, I hope to see continued improvements in security and the strengthening of Iraq's young democracy. We will continue to work with the government and people of Iraq to that end, supporting all Iraqis in the political, social and economic development of their country," he added.