NATO starts training for the Iraqi forces

The commander of the NATO training force in Iraq. Gen. Karel Hildering said yesterday that a team of 57 NATO officers started training of the Iraqi security forces in this country and might expand its mission, according to the needs of the government of Eyad Allawi.

The spokesman for NATO mission in Baghdad, Col. Peter Lindikfist, said for his part that despite the mission is working now under the direct control of the NATO -- the final status of the leadership will be discussed in September."