Rice Congratulates Iraqis on Constitution

"Both the process for producing the document and the text of the draft constitution show a shared commitment to a common future and identity for all Iraqis," Rice said in a statement.

Iraq's draft constitution lays a foundation for a democratic system in which all citizens' voices may be heard, human rights are protected, rule of law is respected and women are full political partners, Rice said.

A vital element of free societies is to resolve disparate views through political compromise, and that is seen emerging in Iraq today, she said.

"We will continue to stand by the Iraqi people as they make important choices about their future," she said.