Talabani Insists on Disarming Militias

In a meeting with deputy prime minister Salam al-Zubai'y, (Iraqi president) Jalal Talabani insisted that it was important for the government to disarm militias, to fight illegal arms and combat takfiris (Islamic militants) and Saddam supporters. He also insisted that the government oppose anyone who wants to create sectarian tension. Talabani expressed support for the efforts made by Iraqi security troops to combat terrorists, expressing hope that more Iraqi troops be trained to take over security. A press release said that Zubai'y and Talabani discussed security challenges and the achievements the government made in fighting terrorists.