Washington, Muharram 16, 1432, 2010, SPA -- U.S. President Barack Obama on Tuesday touted the movement of the Iraqi leadership towards finalizing the government. "Today's vote in the Council of Representatives is a significant moment in Iraq's history and a major step forward in advancing national unity. I congratulate Iraq's political leaders, the members of the Council of Representatives, and the Iraqi people on the formation of a new government of national partnership," Obama said in a statement released by the White House Press Office. "Iraq faces important challenges, but the Iraqi people can also seize a future of opportunity. The United States will continue to strengthen our long-term partnership with Iraq's people and leaders as they build a prosperous and peaceful nation that is fully integrated into the region and international community," Obama said. --SPA 10:27 LOCAL TIME 07:27 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/848228