Iraqi FM: No Problem With Aussie Pullout

So will an Australian withdrawal from Iraq be as calamitous as John Howard predicts? Let's ask the Iraqis:

Iraqi Deputy Foreign Minister Labeed Abbawi was asked about the consequences of Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd's plan to withdraw troops if Labor won the next election.

"As far as the combat forces, if they decide to withdraw ... if this can be done through an agreed program with the Iraqis with the timing, I think then we can manage," Mr Abbawi told ABC television...

Asked if the withdrawal would send a negative signal to the US and Britain, Mr Abbawi said: "No ... if it is done with an agreement and consultation, I don't think it will create much problem."

No doubt he will be getting a phone call from Mr Howard's office very soon.