We seek to build small professional army, says Iraqi Defense Minister
Defense Minister Khaled al-Obeidi
(IraqiNews.com) Salah AL-Dien – Defense Minister Khaled al-Obeidi announced on Thursday, that the ministry is seeking to build a small “professional” army, despite the weakness of the financial allocations, considering the liberation battles of Ramadi as a beginning to fully liberate the province of Anbar, while pointed out that Iraq is pursuing a policy of diversifying sources of armament.
Khalid al-Obeidi said during a press conference held at the Balad Air Base on the sidelines of the reception of the first patch of the Czech fighter jets (L159) attended by IraqiNews.com “The reception of the aircraft comes to support the Iraqi troops in the battles against ISIS,” noting that “The Ministry of Defense continues to build the capacity of the Iraqi army, despite the challenges of the financial resources.”
Al-Obeidi also added, “The ministry is seeking to build a small professional and trained army during the next phase,” stressing that “The ministry is pursuing the policy of diversification of sources of armament.”