Iraq's interim government announced Monday the names of 43 ambassadors for foreign missions, in a move to highlight the sovereignty and legitimacy of the government.

"This is an important step that confirms the sovereignty of the Iraqi government and its complete control over its foreign policy,"Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari said at a press conference. Only two women were on the list of the nominees.

The 43 missions include 17 European countries plus the Vatican and a Geneva mission, 12 Arab countries plus the Arab League, five Islamic countries, three Asian countries plus Australia, Canada and South Africa.

Regarding the United States, Iraq has not made its decision yet,Zebari said.

Source: Xinhua