Clinton Pledges Long-term US Commitment to Afghanistan
David Gollust | Washington, D.C. 11 May 2010
U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says the United States will not abandon Afghanistan, saying the U.S. will remain committed to Afghanistan for years to come.
At the start of Tuesday's day-long talks in Washington, Clinton told Afghan President Hamid Karzai that the U.S. will remain committed to Afghanistan's security and development long after "the last combatant has laid down arms."
Mr. Karzai thanked Clinton for U.S. contributions in Afghanistan, saying gains in education, infrastructure, and security would not have been possible without the sacrifices of U.S. troops and U.S. financial backing.
The secretary of state acknowledged that the two countries have not always agreed on everything. Clinton said the ability to disagree on issues reflects a level of trust and will not impact the achievement of strategic goals. Mr. Karzai said such differences are a sign of a "mature" relationship.
Mr. Karzai's visit is the first since he angered U.S. officials by claiming that foreign governments and the United Nations were behind the massive fraud in last year's Afghan presidential election.
The Afghan leader, who is accompanied by nearly a dozen members of his Cabinet, will meet with President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden on Wednesday.
The White House says the discussions will focus on Afghan security and governance, including Mr. Karzai's efforts to fight corruption, and his outreach to Taliban insurgents who want peace.
Other major issues include ongoing U.S. and NATO efforts to build a capable Afghan army and police force, as well as strengthening the country's judicial institutions.
During his four-day visit, President Karzai and members of his delegation also will meet with members of Congress.
Some information for this report was provided by AP and AFP.
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