As delivered by Ambassador Daniel B. Baer to the Permanent Council
Vienna | October 9, 2014
The United States congratulates Afghanistan on the inauguration of President Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai and the appointment of Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah. We commend both for their patriotism and commitment to the success of their country, which led to the establishment of a government of national unity to fulfill Afghan aspirations for peace, prosperity, and stability.
Afghans have taken a moment of challenge and turned it into an opportunity. The outcome of the presidential election has brought about the first peaceful democratic transition in the history of Afghanistan and shows that the Afghan people are determined to choose unity over division.
But this is just the beginning, and there are still tough decisions ahead. As Afghanistan enters this new chapter in its history, the United States looks forward to deepening its enduring partnership with a sovereign, unified, and democratic Afghanistan.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
