WASHINGTON - A bipartisan panel is closing in on a plan for peace in Iraq that could give Republicans and Democrats a chance at consensus - or at least a tenable framework for agreement.

US President Bush acknowledges applause during Veterans Day ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, Saturday, Nov. 11, 2006, in Arlington, Va. [AP]

Monday was a pivotal day for talks involving the Iraq Study Group. Headed by former Secretary of State James A. Baker III, who served under the first President Bush, the group plans to release its findings before the end of the year.

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Even before it is finished, the study group's report is seen by many as having huge stakes. It could give the Democratic and Republican parties a chance at consensus - or at least a tenable framework for agreement - after an election that gave Democrats congressional control and reshaped Bush's final two years in office.

"The president looks forward to sharing his thoughts with the Iraq Study Group, as do other administration officials," said Gordon Johndroe, spokesman for the National Security Council, on Sunday. "He is open to any ideas and suggestions on the way forward."

Meanwhile, Gen. John Abizaid, head of the US Central Command, met Monday with the Iraqi prime minister to "reaffirm President Bush's commitment" to success in Iraq, the government said.

Nouri al-Maliki and Abizaid, who commands all US forces in the Middle East, discussed "the effect neighboring countries are having on the security situation in Iraq," the government statement said in a clear reference to Iran and Syria.

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