Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, met this morning at the Presidential Palace with General James Jones, the Supreme Allied Commander of NATO.

The President and General Jones discussed NATO’s expansion to the west and south of Afghanistan, the gradual unification of international forces command in Afghanistan and NATO’s contribution to the security of the Parliamentary elections.

The President welcomed General Jones to Afghanistan and thanked him for NATO’s contribution in bringing peace and stability to Afghanistan.

The President welcomed NATO’s expansion program which will lead NATO to Take over the unified command of the ISAF and Coalition forces. The President said, “NATO’s contribution to Afghanistan is highly appreciated. I am grateful for NATO’s role in the Provincial Reconstruction Teams that Bring security and most importantly reconstruction to the people of Afghanistan.

I would like to thank NATO and ISAF forces for providing security for The upcoming Parliamentary elections.”

Discussing the problem of narcotics, the President said: “The people of Afghanistan have responded to our call to fight against narcotics and we have seen considerable reduction due to eradication and refrain from cultivation. However, we also need the support of the international community to provide alternative livelihoods to the farmers.” On NATO’s role after the Bonn process in Afghanistan the President said, “The conclusion of the Bonn process in Afghanistan is not the end of the road but the beginning of a new journey and Afghanistan will need the continued assistance of NATO and the international community so it can build its institutions and stand on its own feet.”

“We are happy to see positive changes in Afghanistan and we will work hard for successful and secure Parliamentary elections.” General Jones said.