Iraqi military and police forces are continuing to move towards self-dependence with extensive training programmes hosted by US forces, Agence France-Presse reports.

Speaking to the news agency, US army lieutenant Christopher McElrath, who organises training programmes in the oil-rich northern city of Kirkuk, explained that the local forces are asked to identify action areas where training is needed most acutely.

Kirkuk also has a dedicated oil police force which is being trained in securing oil infrastructure in the city and its environs.

Explaining the training regime, lieutenant McElrath said: "We try to get the training agenda from them ... we take what they ask for and then we make suggestions."

The US forces are mandated to continue with training and development initiatives in the country through to 2011, when full control will be passed over to Iraqi troops.

Iraq's navy has already taken responsibility for its maritime security, with the country's two key oil ports in the south now protected by internal forces.

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