Smith tells US alliance will stay close despite withdrawal

news.com.au ^ | 29th January 2008

[naturalman1975]

FOREIGN Affairs Minister Stephen Smith has assured the US the Government's commitment to their alliance remains strong, despite withdrawing from Iraq.

Mr Smith reaffirmed Australia's plan to withdraw its combat troops from Iraq in the first half of this year.

But he promised US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, during a meeting in Washington, that Australia would work to minimise disruption from the pull-out, offering to consider stepping up civilian aid and expertise.

....

The Rudd Government plans to withdraw most of its front-line troops, but will leave hundreds of troops in supporting roles.

[naturalman1975]

The Rudd Government plans to withdraw most of its front-line troops, but will leave hundreds of troops in supporting roles.

While I would prefer the main body of our combat troops were left in Iraq, I have to say I am sick of the media describing this in terms that suggest it's a total withdrawal.

Australia withdrew most combat troops from Iraq in 2003, following the initial combat phase, leaving behind support troops. Combat troops were sent back in in 2005 to provide security for Japanese engineers (since withdrawn). This wasn't portrayed as a total withdrawal, but things have obviously changed in the media.

[pnh102]

... I am sick of the media describing this in terms that suggest it's a total withdrawal.

The media can't do enough to help the enemy. It will spin any story it can in such a way as to hurt our war effort and help our enemies.

[bill1952]

It doesn’t do you any good to portray this as a strengthening of ties with America, either.

It isn’t good, no matter which direction the spin is going.
The MSM is beyond contempt.