US vows continued support for Kabul, Afghan forces

KABUL (Pajhwok): A top American diplomat has promised continued US assistance to the Afghan government and security forces.

US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad held out the promise at a meeting with Afghan leaders in Kabul late on Sunday.

The envoy met President Ashraf Ghani and High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR) Chairman of the Abdullah Abdullah.

The Presidential Palace said Ghani and Khalilzad exchanged views on expanding cooperation and maintaining political, diplomatic, security and economic links.

Referring to the $3.3 billion annual assistance to ANSDF, Khalilzad conveyed the Biden administration’s message of support for the security and defense forces.

A statement from Ghani’s office said: “The two sides emphasised on expansion of cooperation and maintaining political, diplomatic, security, and economic ties.”

At his meeting with Abdullah, Khalilzad said the US remained committed to supporting Afghanistan in its fight against terrorism and providing financial support to the its security forces.

Abdullah’s office said: “Khalilzad stated his country firmly supports the peace process and works to build global and regional consensus in support of peace efforts.”

The visiting American dignitary called on the warring parties to reduce violence and engage in serious and fruitful negotiations.

On Sunday, Khalilzad arrived in Kabul at the head of an inter-agency delegation, including National Security Council and Department of Defense representatives.

The US envoy is expected to meet Afghan political figures and women’s groups to hear their views on the peace process.

pr/mud