Eye to eye over Iraq?

Last Modified: 20 Mar 2008
By: Sue Turton

The Republican candidate for president John McCain meets Gordon Brown and David Cameron - but on the fifth anniversary of the invasion of Iraq are they both on the same page as him on finishing the fight?

There was optimism in the heart of Baghdad five years ago that an Iraq without Saddam Hussein would soon be at peace - the violence and oppression a thing of the past.

A statue of an Iraqi family that replaced the dictator in Firdous Square was a symbol that this would be a haven for its people to bring up their children. But the vision of a new Iraq didn't include an occupying force still thoroughly entrenched in running the country.

"When the former regime was toppled we hoped that the situation and living standards would have improved. But the Americans did nothing for Iraqis. We have seen only killings, looting, explosions and kidnapping." - Mohammed al-Bahidili, local resident:

Nor did the war's architects expect it would stalk yet another US Presidential election.

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Today in Downing Street the republican candidate who fully supports the current troop surge met with Gordon Brown who's committed to withdrawal - just what they agreed upon wasn't clear. But he wouldn't be drawn on whether he would pick up where George Bush leaves off.

"I fully appreciate that British public opinion has been frustrated by sometimes our lack of progress in both areas. " - John McCain

While Senator McCain appears statesmanlike on his tour of the Middle East and Western Europe the Democratic candidates continue to slug it out back home. Hillary Clinton using her longevity as evidence that she could assume the role of commander in chief straight away.

For most Iraqis this anniversary is not cause for celebration but even in Saddam's home town of Tikrit they've plans for regeneration - his old derelict palace is to be rebuilt and open to the public.