As part of his outreach to American allies and partners, US Vice President Joe Biden spoke with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki to discuss the developments in Egypt.

Both the leaders welcomed the peaceful change in Egypt and commended the Egyptian army for respecting the wishes of the Egyptian people, the White House said.

Biden also congratulated al-Maliki on the recent approval by the Council of Representatives of several key ministers, including the Minister of Electricity.

The Vice President commended the Prime Minister for his role in consolidating Iraq’s democratic progress, and encouraged the prompt completion of the final steps for government formation, including the appointment of security ministers and the establishment of the National Council for Higher Policies, the statement said.