With less than three weeks before the last US combat troops leave Iraq, and nearly nine years after the US invaded to oust Saddam Hussein, President Obama and Prime Minister Maliki sat down to discuss the future of the US-Iraq relationship.

Obama said he and Mr. Maliki reaffirmed a "common vision" of a long-term comprehensive partnership, including cooperation in security, counter-terrorism, economic development and strengthening Iraq's institutions.

US-Iraq discussions continue on implementation of a Strategic Framework Agreement, and on US training for Iraqi forces.  An agreement on that eluded both sides over the past year.

The two leaders made the short trip from the White House to Arlington National Cemetery where they jointly laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns, a memorial honoring US soldiers whose remains have not been identified.

December 11’s White House talks came against the backdrop of concerns US and Iraqi officials have that the US withdrawal could lead to weakened security and an upsurge in violence.