广播听力：Baghdad Residents Prepare to Welcome the New Year

Ahmed Jamal is a university student.

"My wish for the year 2008 is that peace and security will prevail in the country and the Iraqi people will be unified from north to south and the security situation will be improved."

Hossam el-Ashami is a local chef. He also expresses his hope for the coming New Year.

"Muslims and Christians are brothers here in this country. We wish them all the best and hope they have quiet and happy lives."

The second half of 2007 saw violence drop dramatically in the country, but some officials warn that the gains could be reversed and there is much more to be done.