Baghdad: Iraqi lawmakers convened their key fall session on Tuesday, facing decisions on key issues like peace and security.

Parliament speaker Mahmoud Al Mashhadani opened the session two hours late because not enough members had showed up for a quorum during the announced starting time.

The session began with 160 of the 275 legislators present.

Key issues facing the lawmakers include a bill providing for provincial elections, legislation to regulate the oil industry and a security pact with the US.

US critics have complained that Iraqi leaders are failing to seize the opportunity created by improved security to reach power-sharing agreements.