WASHINGTON, March 20 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump and Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi on Monday hailed the military cooperation between the two countries and expressed confidence in defeating the Islamic State group.

The two leaders made the remarks as Trump hosted Abadi at the White House to affirm America's support for Iraq in the fight against the IS, the White House said in a statement.

The two leaders agreed to pursue a long-term partnership to "decisively" root out terrorism from Iraq and strengthen the Iraqi military and other key institutions, said the statement.

Recognizing that terrorism cannot be defeated by military might alone, the two leaders also agreed to promote a broad-based political and economic partnership between the two countries.

In the months ahead, U.S. and Iraqi leaders will consult on steps to deepen commercial ties and promote investment, expand collaboration in the energy sector, and seek new opportunities for cultural and educational cooperation.

Monday's meeting comes as Iraqi forces continue to consolidate gains against the IS, particularly in the battle of Mosul, which has been under the IS control since June 2014.

After declaring the liberation of the eastern side of Mosul in late January, Abadi announced the start of an offensive on Feb. 19 to drive extremist militants out of the western side of the IS stronghold.

The meeting between Trump and Abadi also comes two days ahead of a key multinational meeting in Washington on fighting against the IS.

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will host foreign ministers and senior officials from 68 nations and international organizations for a detailed discussion of priorities for the efforts against the IS.