Iraqi PM hopes to develop ties with US

Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al Abadi expressed his country's desire to develop relations with the United States.

In statements before leaving Baghdad for the United States on Monday, the prime minister said Baghdad needs greater support from the international coalition so it can combat the Daesh group.

Abadi added the "marked increase" in airstrikes, weapons deliveries and training has helped defeat the extremist group, but that more is required to rid Iraq of it once and for all.

He described Iraq's relationship with neighboring Iran as "very balanced".

Abadi's talks in the United States are expected to deal the pogress made by the Iraqi forces and Shiiite militias over Daesh in addition to the efforts exerted by the Iraqi government to achieve political and economic reforms.