Romania Eyes Pulling Troops From Iraq After NATO Summit

Melescanu made the statement on Friday in Iasi, north-western Romania, on occasion of sending to Iraq another 400 soldiers from the 151 Infantry Regiment “Lupii Negri.”

Melescanu said that by yearend or the begging of 2009, Romania might begin the first stages of withdrawing its troops.  

The minister added that the Romanian army would continue to help Iraqi troops even after the withdrawal.

The Lupii Negri regiment might be one of the last Romanian units sent to ensure peace on Iraq’s territory.