Washington  - US President Barack Obama "dropped in" on a meeting that Iraqi President Jalal Talabani was having with another top White House official on Tuesday.

According to a statement released by the White House, Obama joined the meeting Talabani was having with National Security Advisor General Jim Jones.

It was not clear if Obama planned a separate meeting with Talabani.

"The president conveyed appreciation for the leadership that President Talabani has shown in promoting national unity in Iraq and encouraged him to continue his efforts in this regard," the White House said in the statement.

Obama expressed support for Iraq's efforts to adopt an election law "soon" and reaffirmed US support for internal developments in the country "as Iraqis take responsibility for their future."

The leaders also discussed the October 20-21 Iraq investment conference in Washington. (dpa)