Iraqi terrorists will not win: Powell

US Secretary of State Colin Powell, making an unannounced visit to Baghdad for the first anniversary of the Iraq war, told several hundred American soldiers and civilian workers today that America must maintain its fight against anti-democratic forces here “because we cannot let them win”.

Speaking in a huge reception room in a palace built by Saddam Hussein, Powell spoke disparagingly of those who, he said, were trying to stop through terrorism what the United States and its allies were trying to build.

“We will fight against it. We will guard against it. They will not win. They will not win because you are here to make sure they lose,” Powell said, drawing cheers and applause.

Powell flew in from Kuwait in a military plane, his fourth stop on a swing through South Asia and the Middle East.

There was no public disclosure of his visit until his arrival at Baghdad International Airport.

Powell’s visit came as the United States and its coalition allies have been working hurriedly to make a seamless transition to an Iraqi-led transition government that would replace the US-led Coalition Provisional Authority.

Powell spoke at the CPA headquarters, a massive structure that Saddam often used for public appearances. It is located in the heavily guarded “green zone” in Baghdad where access is highly restricted.

Powell, whose first visit Iraq came last September, told the gathering: “You and your buddies have removed a horrible dictatorial regime that was a threat to its own citizens, a threat to the region and a threat to the world.

“You and your buddies can be very proud of what you have done – and let no one ever tell you otherwise,” Powell said.

Powell had a meeting with Paul Bremer, the head of the CPA, shortly after his helicopter touched down in the green zone following the C-130 flight to Baghdad.

Later, aides to Powell and Bremer joined the discussion.

It was a year ago that the US bombing campaign against the Iraqi regime began. Three weeks later, Saddam was driven from power.

But allied forces have had difficulty bringing security against the armed opposition, which has carried out a series of high profile attacks in recent weeks in hopes of turning Iraqis against the coalition.