BAGHDAD (AFP) -- British Defense Secretary Des Browne met Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki in Baghdad on Monday to discuss efforts to improve security and hand over security responsibility to Iraqi forces.

Maliki emphasized "the importance of accelerating the rehabilitation of the Iraqi armed forces which will help tremendously in reducing the dangers that face coalition forces," according to his office.

The talks followed a meeting between Browne and Defense Minister Abdul Qader Jassim Mohammed in which they discussed progress in the war against Al-Qaeda in the western province of Anbar, the Iraqi defense ministry said.

The province, considered the heartland of the country's Sunni insurgency, has grown quieter in recent months following a decision by some of the region's more powerful clans to side with U.S.-led forces against Al-Qaeda.

Browne "expressed his satisfaction regarding the decision of the tribes in Anbar to confront the terror in the city," according to the statement.

Throughout the visit Browne praised the 7,100 British troops operating in the south of the country, and the Iraqi forces which have recently taken over responsibility for three bases in the port city of Basra.

"Our forces' commitment and their courage is inspiring," Browne said during a visit to the Basra Air Station, a multinational forces base.

"Regulars and reservists alike of 19 Light Brigade have braved many dangers and overcome tough conditions to make their contribution to improvements in Basra," he added, according to a British statement. "Under their mentoring the Iraqi army and security forces have continued to mature, and it is immensely encouraging to see the willingness and enthusiasm with which they are now conducting security operations."

While in Basra the defense secretary was told of the death of Rifleman Paul Donnachie from the 2nd Battalion, who was shot while on patrol in the city on Sunday morning. "This is terrible news. As ever, my deepest sympathies are with Rifleman Donnachie's family, friends and comrades at this difficult time."

"Our forces face great risks as they go about their duties, and they do so with tremendous fortitude, grit and professionalism," he said.

At least 146 British soldiers have died since the March 2003 U.S.-led invasion, including 11 since the beginning of April.