President Obama called Dr. Haider al-Abadi today to congratulate him on his appointment as the Iraqi Prime Minister-designate. The President expressed his support for the formation of a new government in Iraq, consistent with constitutional requirements. The Prime Minister-designate discussed the need for Iraqi leaders to take practical steps to address long-stalled political issues and to partner with the United States to strengthen the Iraqi Security Forces in order to effectively and sustainably counter the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. Both leaders agreed on the importance of forming an inclusive government representative of all communities as soon as possible. The President emphasized that the United States stands ready to deepen political and security cooperation with Iraq as political leaders seek to implement political reforms. Dr. Abadi thanked the President for his call and expressed his support for a strong partnership between the United States and Iraq.