Washington ? The White House says Vice President Joe Biden is in Iraq.

He’s there to visit U.S. troops and meet with Iraqi leaders, including President Jalal Talabani and Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.

Biden headed to Iraq the same week as U.S. troops handed over security in cities and urban areas to Iraqis.

The White House says Biden will reiterate the U.S. commitment to carry out President Barack Obama’s plan to withdraw combat forces. He also will press Iraqi leaders to make more progress toward political reconciliation. It’s his first trip to Iraq as vice president.