U.S. ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker speaks during the formal opening of the new U.S. embassy in Baghdad's fortified Green Zone January 5, 2009. The United States opened its new embassy building in Baghdad on Monday, a step meant to symbolise its transition from occupying power to an ally of a sovereign Iraqi government. REUTERS/Erik de Castro (IRAQ)Form Yahoo News/AP:
BAGHDAD – The United States inaugurated its largest embassy ever in the heart of the Green Zone on Monday, officially opening the fortress-like compound that was intended to stand as a testament to America's commitment to Iraq.
Addressing an inauguration ceremony under tight security, Ambassador Ryan Crocker said the $700 million embassy was testimony to America's long-term friendship with Iraq, where about 146,000 U.S. troops are deployed.
"From this embassy in the years to come, we look forward to building our partnership and contributing to the future," Crocker said.
Attacks once again rocked Baghdad a day after a suicide bomber killed at least 38 people at a Shiite shrine just four miles north of the site of the new embassy. Four bombs exploded in different parts of Baghdad just before noon on Monday, killing four people and wounding 19.
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Female suicide bomber kills dozens of Shi'ites on Iraq pilgrimage -- The Telegraph
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Cheney: U.S. close to achieving its goals in Iraq -- Reuters
FACTBOX: Security developments in Iraq -- Reuters
US military deaths in Iraq war at 4,221 -- Yahoo News/AP
