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U.S. Will Talk with Iran, Syria About Iraqi Stability The Iraqi government is inviting ambassadors from Iran and Syria to discuss security in Iraq, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. The surprise announcement came as Rice spoke on Capitol Hill with Defense Secretary Robert Gates about new funds for U.S. efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Middle East

U.S. Will Talk with Iran, Syria About Iraqi Stability

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U.S. Will Talk with Iran, Syria About Iraqi Stability

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The U.S. and Iraqi governments will invite ambassadors from Iran and Syria to discuss security in Iraq, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

"We hope that all governments will seize this opportunity to improve their relations with Iraq," Rice said, "and to work for peace and stability in the region."

The surprise announcement came as Rice spoke on Capitol Hill with Defense Secretary Robert Gates. They were there to ask the Senate to support President Bush's request for $99.6 billion to pay for the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Melissa Block talks with NPR's Guy Raz, who attended the hearing.