The Strategic Framework Agreement for a Relationship of Friendship and Cooperation between the United States and the Republic of Iraq guides our overall political, economic, cultural, and security ties with Iraq.  This agreement is designed to help the Iraqi people stand on their own and reinforce Iraqi sovereignty, while protecting U.S. interests in the Middle East.  The SFA normalizes the U.S.-Iraqi relationship with strong economic, diplomatic, cultural, and security cooperation and serves as the foundation for a long-term bilateral relationship based on mutual goals.