The US Secretary of State John Kerry has pledged strong US support to Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) and next government of Afghanistan.
Kerry made the statement “on the occassion of 95th Independence Day of Afghanistan. “On behalf of President Obama and the United States, I send best wishes to the people and government of Afghanistan as you celebrate your Independence Day on August 19.”
Kerry said his recent travels to Afghanistan in support of presidential elections this year underscore both the importance of our long-standing partnership and the significance of the upcoming transition.
He praised the Afghan people for defying threats and violence to vote and called on all parties to honor those voters’ aspiration for a democratic, peaceful transfer of power that unifies the country.
Kerry reiterated continued support to the democratic process and the agreement reached between the two candidates concerning the formation of a national unity government.
He said our security partnership will endure as the Us and coalition combat mission comes to an end this year.
“We plan to continue our strong support for the ANSF, including through the train, advise, and assist mission that will follow the conclusion of the ISAF mission. The Afghan people should be proud of the security forces who have ably taken full responsibility for securing the country, including during two rounds of voting,” Kerry said.
He also added, “As envisaged in the Strategic Partnership Agreement between Afghanistan and the United States, our relationship is not only about security cooperation, but also about building on our shared democratic values, strengthening regional ties and on working together to ensure that Afghanistan reaches its full economic potential.”
Kerry said he looks forward to close cooperation with Afghanistan’s next government “to further broaden and deepen our bilateral friendship as we work together on these challenges.”
Khaama
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