US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has met Iraqi leaders during her first trip to Iraq as America's top diplomat. Clinton has praised Iraq's progress with security and pledged continued support to the country.

Clinton held talks with Iraqi President Jal Talabani and Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki during a surprise visit to the country.

Clinton assured Iraqis of US support as Washington presses ahead with plans to withdraw US troops.

Hillary Clinton, US Secretary of State, said, "At every stop I have emphasized President Obama's message that our strategy working with you may be in a new phase, but we pledge our full and continuing commitment to Iraq and the Iraqi people."

Clinton also said Iraq has made great strides in maintaining security despite the recent violence.

(CCTV April 26, 2009)