Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein and US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf stressed the necessity of a ceasefire in the region and resolving crises through diplomatic means. A statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Hussein received the US official in Washington, where they discussed strengthening bilateral relations and joint cooperation between the two countries. The necessity of a ceasefire in the region and resolving crises through diplomatic means was emphasized, as well as the importance of making efforts to help displaced Lebanese and provide support to end the humanitarian crisis. The US Assistant Secretary of State expressed her full support for Iraq and the efforts of the Iraqi government to contain crises. According to the statement, the issue of resolving outstanding problems with the State of Kuwait and the necessity of returning to the negotiating table was discussed. The minister stressed that the recent meeting s in New York between the Iraqi and Kuwaiti delegations confirmed that dialogues are the right way to solve problems, and that they will begin soon. He also stressed Iraq's true desire to reach understandings to resolve existing differences. The two parties agreed on the need for calm and the keenness of all parties to prevent the conflict in the Middle East from expanding, and to make the necessary efforts to end the conflict and spare the region the risk of escalation. Source: National Iraqi News Agency