Operation CATALYST: Image Gallery
15 May 2005
Dinner with tribal leaders in the Al Muthanna province
A simple gesture of inviting local tribal leaders to an evening meal has established the foundation for a close relationship between the Multi-National Forces and the people of Al Muthanna.
Symbolic of the peace and stability experienced in Al Muthanna, 14 of the most influential tribal Sheiks, as well as another 22 representing all the tribal groups in the region, attended the dinner function.
The Commander of Multi-National Force, Colonel Niall Campbell said the initiative was aimed at thanking the people of Al Muthanna for the welcome that the soldiers from Britain and Australia had been given.
The Commanding Officer of the Australian contingent, Lieutenant Colonel Roger Noble said he understood clearly that there were high expectations of the Coalition to maintain security and stability in the region.
"They have been keen to get the message out that this Province is secure and stable and people should visit and through this environment will come investment and progress," Lieutenant Colonel Noble said.
| 20050513adf8243116_119 A dinner for Sheiks from Al Muthanna province at the Coalition military base, Camp Smitty, in southern Iraq. (Date taken: 13 May 2005) Low-res | High-res |
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| 20050513adf8243116_130 Sheiks from Al Muthanna province, southern Iraq, at a dinner held at Camp Smitty with British Colonel Niall Campbell (centre) and Australian Lieutenant Colonel Roger Noble (left). (Date taken: 13 May 2005) Low-res | High-res |
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