Congratulations to Iraqi People on Draft Constitution
Secretary Condoleezza Rice
Washington, DC
August 28, 2005
The United States congratulates the Iraqi people on completing the process of drafting a constitution. This event marks
another critical step forward along the pathway to a free, prosperous, and democratic Iraq. Both the process for
producing the document and the text of the draft constitution show a shared commitment to a common future and identity
for all Iraqis.
Citizens of democracies around the globe recognize a vital element of free societies is to resolve disparate views
through political compromise. We see this fact of democracy emerging in Iraq today. We also see in Iraq's draft
constitution a foundation for a democratic system in which all voices may be heard, human rights are protected, rule of
law is respected, and women are full political partners.
All Iraqis now have the opportunity in October to vote on a new constitution. We will continue to stand by the Iraqi
people as they make important choices about their future.
ENDS