Rice: Provincial reconstruction teams in Iraq to be doubled by end of March

Secretary Rice on a visit to Iraq. Provincial reconstruction teams (PRTs) were first used in Afghanistan. The definition of their role is often vaguely defined as helping Iraqis 'stand on their own feet'. The current State Department announcement states 'Ten new provincial teams, supported by US military units, will bring together outstanding civilian experts to compliment our military presence, with dynamic programs that encourage moderates, aid reconciliation and counterinsurgency efforts and help accelerate the transition to Iraqi self-reliance.' It continues, 'We are currently looking for applicants with skills, experience and expertise in the following fields: Governance, Economics, Rule of Law, Agri-Business, Veterinary Medicine, City Management-Engineering, Business Specialist, Medical, Public Diplomacy, Industry Specialists, and Intelligence Analysts.'

WASHINGTON — State Department officials will double the number of provincial reconstruction teams in Iraq and recruit more than 300 civilians to help man them in an effort to help stabilize that country, the secretary of state announced Tuesday.

“We are transitioning our role,” Condoleezza Rice told members of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “This is to help Iraqis build their own democratic institutions and lead their own economic development at the provincial and local levels.”

Currently, the State and Defense departments operate 10 PRTs in Iraq. Rice said she hopes to have another 10 in place by the end of March, and that team leaders have already been named and are preparing to head overseas.

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