In February 2003 Poland deployed 200 combat troops to help liberate Iraq. Now the task is to stabilize the situation, helping Iraqis to build a new democratic state. We are actively engaged in assisting their efforts to make it possible for them to rule their own country as soon as possible. Poland’s contribution has grown to 2500 troops. On September 3, 2003 Poles took over the responsibility in South Central Iraq, commanding multinational forces from 21 nations. This area comprises several provinces, including Karbala and the Babilon region run directly by Poland; Wasit – run by Ukraine, Najaf and Kadisija – run by Spain – all within the scope of Polish responsibility. The multinational division numbers over 12,000 troops and is led by Polish general Andrzej Tyszkiewicz. Polish troops are the third largest stabilization force in Iraq, after the Americans and the British.