Secretary-General Welcomes New United States Plan for Afghanistan

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General welcomes the new United States plan for Afghanistan announced by President Barack Obama yesterday evening.  He notes with appreciation the proposed approach to balance military and civilian efforts and the emphasis on strengthening the capacity of Afghan institutions and Afghan security forces in particular.

The Secretary-General strongly feels that institution-building is a long-term, but necessary, process that will ultimately ensure the sustainability of the international community’s joint efforts in Afghanistan.  The United Nations remains committed to support all efforts to transition to increased Afghan ownership, responsibility and leadership in achieving lasting peace, stability and development in the country.

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For information media • not an official record