Iraq president says close to accord with armed groups

President Jalal Talabani has said he was close to striking a deal with seven militant groups that could end the violence plaguing Iraq.

"The Americans have entered into negotiations with some of these groups with my blessing and I think it is possible to reach an agreement with the seven armed organisations," Talabani said according to a statement released from his office.

He said these groups were fighting against the US occupation of Iraq, adding Sunday "we want to have a dialogue with them and they can join the political process.

"They are visiting me and I met them. As there is broad freedom to express opinion, there is no justification for armed action" in Iraq, he said.

The president also charged that neighbouring Syria was the "main source" of the insurgency.

"It hurts me that Syria is the main source for the support of insurgency," the statement said.