Iraqi President Optimistic About New Government Taking Shape

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BAGHDAD, Iraq -- Iraq's president issued a highly optimistic report Friday on progress among politicians trying to hammer out the shape of a new unity government. At least 51 more people, including two U.S. soldiers, were reported dead in rampant violence.

President Jalal Talabani said the government could be in place for parliamentary approval by the end of the month, though he acknowledged "I am usually a very optimistic person." He spoke to reporters after a fifth round of multiparty talks among the country's polarized political factions.

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Iraqi President Optimistic About New Government Taking Shape

U.S. Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad brokered the sessions, with the Bush administration applying...

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