Ambassador Christopher Hill on the Next Chapter in Iraq

August 18, 2010

After more than seven years, the U.S. combat mission in Iraq will end on August 31.  The nature of the U.S. commitment to Iraq is now transforming from a military mission to a civilian effort led by American diplomats.  This unprecedented transition is occurring at a delicate moment, as Iraqis continue to struggle to form a government after national elections in March and amid increasing concerns about the potential for renewed violence.

Ambassador Christopher Hill has just completed his tour serving as America's top diplomat in Iraq and reflected on Iraq's transition, politics, current situation and future prospects.

Christopher Hill has served as U.S. ambassador to Iraq, Poland, and Macedonia as well as U.S. special envoy to Kosovo.  From 2005 to 2009 he was assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, and headed the U.S. delegation to the Six-Party Talks on the North Korean nuclear issue.

Speakers

• Ambassador Christopher Hill
  U.S. Department of State
• William Taylor, Moderator
  Vice President, Center for Post-Conflict Peace and Stability Operations
  U.S. Institute of Peace

Explore Further

• For background, check out the latest piece by USIP’s Daniel Serwer and Sean Kane on foreignpolicy.com, “What Should the U.S. Do About Iraq's Political Stalemate?”
• Read more about this event