Summary Biden says the step reminds the world that Iraq's leaders are committed to compromise and progress.
WASHINGTON (AP) Vice President Joe Biden is applauding Iraq s passage of legislation governing its upcoming election, saying it strengthens democracy even in the face of growing terrorism.
Biden says the step reminds the world that Iraq s leaders are committed to compromise and progress. He says the United States will work to ensure the elections go well and that the results reflect the Iraqi people s will.
Iraq on Monday picked April 30, 2014, for national elections, and Iraq s parliament increased its number of seats from 325 to 328.
Biden last week held three days of meetings in Washington with Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, including one with President Barack Obama.
Al-Maliki hasn t ruled out seeking a third term next year, even though his opponents charge his administration is a dictatorship in the making.
