The outgoing deputy commanding general of the US led Multinational Force in Iraq, Lieutenant General John Cooper, said that British forces will leave Iraq this year.

Noting that democracy is firmly established and al-Qaeda largely thwarted in the country, he reported that Britain's 4,100 troops will start pulling out of their base beginning May 31.

The withdrawal will be complete by July 31, but 400 reserves will remain on the ground to help train Iraqi naval forces.

(CCTV March 3, 2009)