KABUL – Reaffirming his stance on maximum mutual understanding and cooperation amongst the regional and neighbouring countries in the ongoing war on terror, Afghan President Hamid Karzai has made it clear that “no one will be allowed to use Afghan soil against Pakistan”.
“Tell your country, Afghanistan is firm on its commitments with Pakistan,” President Karzai told Pakistan’s representative while addressing the installation ceremony of newly-elected Lower House ( Olassi Jirga) at Kabul on Wednesday. While diverting attention of the newly elected parliamentarians towards his achievements regarding cordial and trust worthy relations with neighbouring countries, President Karzai especially made a comprehensive statement about Pakistan.
He expressed satisfaction over the outcome of the Supreme Reconciliation Council delegation’s trip into Pakistan, and thanked the Pakistani authorities for assuring support, which according to him, could help in restoring peace in Afghanistan. In his over one hour speech, President Karzai listed out achievements of his government in the last decade. He said Afghanistan’s Reserves were over six billion dollars. Similarly the trade ration was on the rise.
Karazai said his government was bound to give an account of every penny, but he regretted that certain foreign countries were extending financial help through non-government organisations (NGO’s). He said Afghanistan was firm on its partnership with the US in the war on terror. He thanked the US led allies for actively participating in the efforts aimed at the return of peace in the country.
‘Qaeda under pressure in Pakistan’
WASHINGTON – Al Qaeda is under more pressure in Pakistan now than at any time since the September 11, 2001 attacks, US President Barack Obama said in his State of the Union address Tuesday. “Their leaders and operatives are being removed from the battlefield. Their safe havens are shrinking,” Obama said.
“And we have sent a message from the Afghan border to the Arabian Peninsula to all parts of the globe: we will not relent, we will not waver and we will defeat you.” Obama thanked counter-terrorism operatives foiling the plots that Al Qaeda continues to plan but also sought to reassure American Muslims that there would be no backlash against them.
“As extremists try to inspire acts of violence within our borders, we are responding with the strength of our communities, with respect for the rule of law and with the conviction that American Muslims are a part of our American family,” he said. AFP
