YouSaid · the spoken record

Rassoul

lines on the record: 52
first: 2010-04-16
most recent: 2012-09-20
sittings or episodes: 4
sources: un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“We are pleased that the Security Council continues to follow the situation closely, and we are thankful for their support and the support of the United Nations, including with regard to revising the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan in line with the demands of Afghan sovereignty. With long-term cooperation and partnership at the centre of our efforts, we are confident that together we can build a more peaceful, stable Afghanistan.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“We are determined to further our efforts towards national ownership across the board, as the most effective way to ensure lasting peace and security in our country. Before concluding, allow me to register the Afghan Government's strong condemnation of the recent senseless, provocative acts of insult to Islam and Prophet Mohammad, Peace Be Upon Him. While acknowledging our fellow Muslims' right to peacefully protest against those insults, we deplore any violence resulting from such protests, especially against diplomatic representations anywhere in the world. The key to Afghanistan's future success is cooperation, both in our transition and the transformation decade to follow. Building trust and confidence with the international community is the basis for our path to security and prosperity.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“While we have seen such changes unfolding throughout the last decade, today we can be proud that the initiatives under way in the area of development are increasingly Afghan-driven and Afghan-led, with support from the international community. That characteristic is crucial for the sustainability of development efforts and for helping Afghanistan to realize its full potential. With the next Presidential elections fast approaching, we are fully committed to ensuring a transparent election process, free of any external interference. After over three decades of struggle and suffering, we are moving ahead with Afghanistan's recovery and renewed strength. Afghans recognize the important indications of our sovereignty.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“Afghanistan desires close and fruitful relations with Pakistan, a neighbour with whom we share historical, cultural and traditional ties. As we work to tackle the challenges on the road ahead, let us not lose sight of the historic, transformative successes achieved thus far. Significant advances in social and economic development are clearly evident. Millions of students - boys, girls, men and women - are enrolled in primary and higher education. A majority of Afghans now have access to basic health services and are increasingly taking part in the democratic process through the exercise of their right to shape their own destiny.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“Let me now turn to a matter of deep and serious concern to my Government and the Afghan people. The shelling of areas of Kunar province in eastern Afghanistan from across the Durand Line has led to unprecedented anger and frustration among Afghans from all walks of life. We reiterate our call for an immediate and complete end to such acts, which have taken the lives of dozens of Afghans, mainly civilians, and left many more wounded. We remain in close contact with the Government of Pakistan to address that issue holistically and resolutely. Failure to end such attacks risks jeopardizing Afghanistan-Pakistan bilateral relations, with potential negative consequences for the bilateral cooperation necessary for peace, security and economic development in our two countries and the wider region.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“The greatest challenges to peace and stability in Afghanistan, such as terrorism, extremism and narcotic drugs, are shared regionally and internationally. Our shared threats require cooperative solutions. We are working with regional countries and other partners for a comprehensive response to those menaces. Launched in November of last year, the Istanbul Process on Regional Security and Cooperation for a Secure and Stable Afghanistan is gaining momentum. The process was further crystallized at the Heart of Asia ministerial conference in Kabul in June, with the prioritization of key confidence-building measures. We look forward to coming together with our Heart of Asia partners in this city, in less than a week from today, at the next meeting of senior officials.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“We therefore look forward to working closely with Council members to amend resolution 1988 (2011) in a way that further benefits and accelerates the Afghan peace process. The violence in Afghanistan has had a drastic effect on the security and well-being of our citizens. We express our serious concern about the growing number of civilian casualties in Afghanistan, the majority of which are caused by the Taliban and other extremist groups. Meanwhile, loss of innocent life and harm to populations have also occurred in the course of NATO operations. The loss of even one innocent life is one too many. We underscore, yet again, the need to exert all measures necessary to protect civilian populations.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“The High Peace Council has revitalized its approach to reconciliation efforts. The international community and our region have an important part to play. The role of the Security Council will be imperative in that process. We thank the Council for supporting our reconciliation efforts by meeting the delisting requests that we have presented. By the same token, we hope that the new mandate of the Taliban sanctions committee will include the necessary adjustments - in recognition of the importance of an Afghan-owned and Afghan- led peace and reconciliation process - to promote a more responsive and flexible sanctions regime to be used more effectively and positively in encouraging those who are willing to join that process.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“Undoubtedly, the unremitting violence plaguing Afghanistan has resulted from the continued military, financial and ideological support enjoyed by terrorists, and the presence of sanctuaries and safe-havens outside the country's borders. Despite the continuing fight against terrorism, the next few years of political and security transition will be vital to a stable future for Afghanistan. We are working diligently to ensure fruitful results in the peace and reconciliation efforts under way. Our inclusive peace and reconciliation process seeks to build trust and confidence among all Afghans. We are determined to integrate within the folds of society those elements of the armed opposition who are willing to renounce violence, cut ties with the terrorist groups and accept the Afghan constitution.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“We see those partnerships as key elements in our collective fight against the twin menaces of terrorism and extremism and in supporting our evolving national ownership in order to achieve future peace and stability. As we continue our transition, with bold steps towards strengthened Afghan sovereignty and national ownership, the enemies of Afghanistan have continued their desperate attempts to undermine our progress towards a brighter future. Terrorist attacks have increasingly targeted families and innocent Afghan men, women and children in many parts of the country, putting a brutal and tragic halt to their peaceful lives.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“Afghanistan is regaining its legitimate place in the region and the world, through playing an active role in its neighbourhood and the international community. Our multilateral agreements and strategic partnerships involve long-term commitments among Afghanistan and our international partners. The partnerships we have formed, both in our neighbourhood and beyond, are essential to preserving the historic achievements of Afghanistan's young democracy and securing the country's future peace and stability. Thus far, we have concluded strategic, long-term partnership agreements with United States of America, India, China, Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Australia.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“The Tokyo Conference marked the beginning of a new relationship between Afghanistan and our international friends based on results-oriented cooperation and conducted under the Tokyo Mutual Accountability Framework. We expect the international community to meet its commitment in channelling assistance through our core budget and aligning its aid with the Afghan national priority programmes. Combating corruption, strengthening governance and consolidating the rule of law will remain key priorities for us. President Karzai's decree of July of this year is a significant step in our counter-corruption efforts. It will be implemented through clear, time-bound measures conducted by all Government ministries, agencies and departments with a View to achieving full accountability and transparency.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“The outcome of the recent Chicago NATO Summit was a clear manifestation of our international partners' resolute commitment to a strong and effective Afghan national security force. We also welcome NATO's decision to develop a new training, advising and assistance role, which will take effect in 2014, and we look forward to working with our relevant partners on the scope and mandate of the new mission. The Afghan people are encouraged by the international community's assurance of assistance in ensuring peace and prosperity throughout the transition into the transformation decade of 2015-2024. In that regard, commitments made at the Bonn conference last year, the NATO summit in May and more recently at the Tokyo Conference in July are crucial to our long- term success.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“The Afghan people are inspired by the prospect of a future free from violence and war. And thanks to our joint efforts, important progress towards that endeavour continues. As we speak, Afghanistan has surpassed the halfway point on our transition to full security responsibility. Given the commencement of the third tranche of security transition in May, 75 per cent of the country will be under Afghan security responsibility by the end of November. Our progress is on track to complete the security transition by the end of 2013. The Afghan army and police are showing more resilience and effectiveness as they take on increasing responsibility to meet the country's security needs. Needless to say, the sustainability of the Afghan National Security Forces is inextricably linked to the international community's long-term support.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“It is truly a pleasure to be among the members of the Security Council today at this critical juncture on Afghanistan's path to peace and prosperity. I congratulate you, Sir, on your assumption of the presidency of the Council for the month of September, and convey our appreciation for Germany's continual support and assistance for Afghanistan during its tenure on the Council. Let me also convey a warm welcome to my good friend and colleague the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Jan Kubis. We thank him for his clear presentation of the Secretary- General's comprehensive report (S/2012/703). We meet at an important time as Afghanistan is transitioning confidently into a vibrant, self-reliant and sovereign nation - a nation that is increasingly taking full charge of its destiny.”
2012-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6840 (2012) · source
“I wish to thank all members of the Council for their expressions of sympathy and condolence on the martyrdom of Mr. Rabbani. I would like also to report that a serious investigation is being conducted to find out how the assassination happened. Of course, when we have the final results, we will notify the Council. (spoke in French) Allow me, on behalf of my people and Government, to thank the members of the Council and the representatives of the countries that are friends of Afghanistan for their lasting support and commitment to my country. With their support, Afghanistan will play an essential role in the peace, stability and prosperity of the region, and will contribute to global peace and security.”
2011-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6625 (2011) · source
“In conclusion, I thank all Afghanistan's partners in the international community for standing beside us in solidarity as we strive to strengthen the foundations of peace, democracy and development we have laid down in Afghanistan. Over the past decade, we have come a long way in our joint efforts, which is something we can all be proud of. But we are still not completely out of the woods. We in Afghanistan are convinced that, together with the support of the international community, we will succeed in realizing our common vision of a peaceful, stable and democratic Afghanistan, a country that is self-reliant and a factor for regional and global peace and cooperation.”
2011-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6625 (2011) · source
“Indeed, Afghanistan is already working with our friends and allies on mapping out our enduring partnerships, including with the United States, the European Union and NATO. These partnerships will help guarantee our security, stability and future economic development. The United Nations has played a very important role in our achievements thus far, for which we remain grateful. On the way forward, this role must be adjusted to reinforce Afghan sovereignty. We welcome all efforts to ensure a more integrated, effective and one United Nations approach, and look forward to the joint comprehensive review of the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan. In that connection, let me thank the Secretary-General once again for authorizing the joint review.”
2011-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6625 (2011) · source
“We will do so by soliciting concrete commitments to enhancing confidence-building, security and political cooperation centred around Afghanistan. A peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan is not only an Afghan need; such an Afghanistan is an absolute precondition for peace, security and prosperity in the region. In Bonn, we will brief the international community on our achievements over the past decade, with a specific focus on transition, reconciliation and regional cooperation. We will also share our vision for the 10 years after transition on consolidating our stability, democracy and economic development. Above all, in Bonn we will call upon the international community for continued assistance beyond 2014.”
2011-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6625 (2011) · source
“Rabbani, which was intended to disrupt the peace process, the High Peace Council will pursue its mandate for peace and reconciliation. If reconciliation is to succeed, we must have the support of regional and international partners. In this connection, I emphasize the importance of a result-oriented role for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. At the same time, we wish to remind the Council that we are committed at all costs to defeating those bent on the destruction and destabilization of our country. We have an important political calendar ahead of us. We look forward to the Istanbul and Bonn Conferences, scheduled for November and December. In Istanbul, together with the countries that make up the heart of Asia and other international partners, we will focus on defining a new vision for regional peace and development.”
2011-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6625 (2011) · source
“The continued spate of attacks, which originate from terrorist sanctuaries and safe havens beyond our borders, has generated an unprecedented level of anger and frustration among a wide spectrum of Afghan society. Let me stress once again our repeated call for a definitive end to these sanctuaries, which are not only harming Afghans, but also destabilizing the region as a whole. To help end the conflict and meet the demands and aspirations of the Afghan people for a durable, dignified and inclusive peace, we will work to bring back to social, economic and political life all members of the armed opposition willing to renounce violence, sever ties with terrorist groups, and accept our Constitution, including respect for human rights and women's rights in particular. Despite the assassination of Mr.”
2011-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6625 (2011) · source
“In that connection, we are pleased that the new Silk Road initiative has gained momentum. We welcome the constructive discussion of last week's ministerial meeting here in New York, which we co-chaired with Germany and the United States. Despite our efforts to stabilize our country, Afghans are still suffering an endless campaign of terror carried out by Afghanistan's enemies. Over the past months, terrorists have launched sophisticated attacks, including the raid on the Inter-Continental Hotel, the attacks on the NATO compound and the United States embassy in Kabul, and a chain of targeted assassinations of a number of Afghanistan's prominent and high-profile national figures.”
2011-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6625 (2011) · source
“Alongside the transition of security responsibilities, we are focused on doing what is necessary to implement the economic pillar of the transition process. This will be a more difficult task, requiring more time and the sustained and long-term engagement of our international partners during and after the transition process. In this regard, we are determined to maximize the potential offered by our natural resources for strengthening our economy. Furthermore, we have prioritized attracting foreign investments and building our infrastructure. Such efforts will enable us to play a key role in broadening, deepening and strengthening regional economic integration by reviving our historic place as the land-bridge between Central Asia, South Asia and the Middle East.”
2011-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6625 (2011) · source
“Secondly, this year we also embarked on transition, an ambitious process by which we Afghans will take full responsibility for the security of our country by the end of 2014. As President Karzai emphasized in his statement to the General Assembly last week, "With the completion of the transition process, we Afghans and our international partners will achieve the most strategic goal of our 10-year long partnership: the emergence of a sovereign Afghanistan that is self-reliant and the peaceful home of all Afghans; an Afghanistan that is at peace, and lives in peace with the rest of the world" (A/66/PV18). In addition to solid Afghan national resolve, the success of the transition process will depend on the continued support of the international community, most importantly in building the capacity of our national security institutions.”
2011-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6625 (2011) · source
“On behalf of the Afghan people and Government, I convey gratitude and appreciation for the outpouring of condolences and support received from around the world. This year is of particular importance to Afghanistan. First, it marks 10 years since the end of the rule of the Taliban, culminating in the opening of a new chapter in our modern history defined by a concerted effort to achieve what has eluded us Afghans for too long: peace, stability and prosperity. Over the past decade, we have come a long way in our joint efforts and have much to show for our progress in building our State institutions, in ensuring our people with essential services, in enabling democracy to take root and in upholding the fundamental rights of all our citizens.”
2011-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6625 (2011) · source
“I wish to begin by congratulating you, Sir, and the Government of Lebanon on assuming the presidency of the Council for the month of September. I also thank my good friend Special Representative Staffan De Mistura for his briefing and presentation of the Secretary-General's report on Afghanistan (S/2011/590). I am pleased to have the opportunity to address the Council once again. Today's meeting takes place against the backdrop of yet another recent tragedy in Afghanistan. A little over a week ago, the enemies of peace in Afghanistan martyred the Chairman of the High Peace Council, former Afghan President Burhanuddin Rabbani. Mr. Rabbani will be remembered for his distinguished service in the cause of peace in Afghanistan. But I want to assure the Council that, despite this national loss, our reconciliation process will continue.”
2011-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6625 (2011) · source
“We expect our international partners to remain by us with fortitude and commitment to ensure the successful conclusion of that transition.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“Afghanistan is confident that by pursuing our comprehensive national agenda for security, development and governance, and by implementing our reintegration and reconciliation initiative, we will succeed in stabilizing Afghanistan and preventing the enemies of a stable and prosperous Afghanistan from regaining control of our country. Nine and half years since the beginning of our partnership with the international community to defeat terrorism and achieve a stable and prosperous Afghanistan, we have come a long way. We attribute our achievements to the sacrifices of the Afghan people and the troops of our partner countries. A transition to increased Afghan responsibility and ownership will be our main priority over the coming years.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“Just recently, together with the Government of Pakistan, we signed the Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement aimed at increasing bilateral trade and generating employment opportunities. Moreover, the signing of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan- India gas pipeline project and the conclusion of the feasibility study for the Central Asia-South Asia project for transfer of energy in the region are milestones for the development and prosperity of our region. We are confident that these projects will benefit security and stability in Afghanistan and the region and strengthen mutual trust and confidence.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“In this regard, we look forward to additional updates, as additional de-listing requests are made. Terrorism poses a grave threat to the security and stability of our region and beyond. In this regard, we remain concerned with the continued presence in our region of safe havens and sanctuaries where terrorists receive recruitment, training and logistical support. It is ever more evident that addressing the challenges facing Afghanistan and our region - including terrorism, extremism and the production and trafficking of narcotic drugs - will not be possible without meaningful cooperation at the regional level. For our part, Afghanistan remains fully committed to a sincere and effective dialogue with Pakistan and other regional countries in favour of the security and prosperity of our region.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“There will be no peace unless military efforts are complemented by a robust and comprehensive outreach initiative. That is why President Karzai launched a reintegration and reconciliation initiative to ensure an honourable place in society for members of the armed opposition who are willing to surrender their arms, renounce violence, accept our constitution, return to normal life and embrace international human rights. We recently established the High Peace Council to oversee the implementation of reintegration and reconciliation. The High Council is now operational and will meet regularly. In addition, we welcome the Security Council's review and updating of the Consolidated List created pursuant to resolution 1267 (1999) as important for implementing our peace initiative.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“In less than two months, Afghanistan and its NATO partners will gather at the NATO Summit in Lisbon to crystallize our joint strategy for the transition to Afghan leadership in security matters in the country in the coming years. We will update our international partners on our progress in building our security forces and discuss remaining challenges to that effect. For the transition to succeed, we first have to find a solution to Afghanistan's ongoing security problem. Afghanistan has endured violence for more than 30 years. Almost 10 years after the start of our joint efforts to stabilize Afghanistan, security remains a problem. We have prioritized ending violence and providing Afghans with what has eluded them for decades: the chance to live in peace and security.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“Meanwhile, it is should be noted that Afghanistan will not be able to attain its development goals without greater responsibility for its finances. Afghans must have a greater decision-making role in their own development. We welcome the international community's decision to channel 50 per cent of donor assistance through our national budget by January 2012. That will lead to greater transparency and efficiency in the utilization of development assistance coming from donor countries. At the same time, we have embarked on a reinvigorated effort to combat corruption and strengthen governance at all levels. Afghans are well aware of the detrimental effect of the menace of corruption and weak governance on the dignity, image and prosperity of our country. We are fully committed to effectively and resolutely ridding our society of corruption.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“I want to reiterate the importance, for achieving this goal, of sustained international support for the training, resourcing and equipping of the Afghan national security forces. Moreover, we have committed to a comprehensive social and economic agenda to improve the lives of all Afghans and achieve a sustainable Afghan economy. In particular, we are giving special focus to agricultural development, rural rehabilitation, human resource development and economic and infrastructure development to generate employment opportunities and meet the immediate needs of our people. I seize this opportunity to convey Afghanistan's thanks and appreciation for the international community's support and assistance.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“We will work towards gradual leadership in all State affairs, in particular, security, development and governance. Our objective is clear: a gradual transfer of responsibilities towards self-reliance in ensuring social and economic opportunities for all Afghans and enforcing the rule of law throughout the country. In the area of security, we will work to build the size, capacity and operational capability of Afghanistan's national security forces. In so doing, we will meet a vital precondition for taking the lead in combat operations in volatile provinces by 2011 and for independently meeting our security obligations by 2014, with international forces offering back-up support.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“Let me take this opportunity to convey our gratitude to the United Nations and other partners for providing financial and technical support for the elections. Just three months ago, Afghanistan and our international partners gathered at the international Kabul Conference to renew our partnership for lasting peace, security and stability. Together, we adopted the "Kabul Process", which focuses on increased Afghan leadership across the board. We also presented our 23 national priority programmes, including the national security policy and our national reconciliation initiative, all of which were endorsed by the international community. Going forward, Afghanistan will pursue a comprehensive strategy to implement the outcome of the London and Kabul Conferences.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“I want to begin by saying a few words about our recent elections, which gave Afghans another chance to shape their future and consolidate our young democracy. Millions of Afghans from all segments of society braved intimidations and threats of attacks, including assassination, to cast their vote. By doing so, Afghans reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to democracy and self-determination. The unprecedented number of young candidates and voters illustrates the degree to which democracy is taking root in Afghan society. Further, the significant increase in women's participation is testament to the further empowerment of women in Afghan political life. Our elections were a major victory for democracy in Afghanistan.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“At the outset, let me thank you, Mr. President, for convening today's meeting on the situation in Afghanistan and congratulate the Government of Turkey for assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of September. I also thank Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon for his most recent report on Afghanistan (S/2010/463) and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Staffan de Mistura, for his comprehensive briefing. Today's meeting comes at a crucial time for Afghanistan, just over three months after the Kabul Conference and less than two weeks since the holding of our parliamentary elections. I am pleased to meet with the Security Council today to discuss the current situation in my country and shed light on the strategy we will pursue to end violence and achieve lasting peace and security.”
2010-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6394 (2010) · source
“In addition to short-term measures, long-term development supported by a committed partnership with the international community is the key to a healthy and sustainable Afghan society that is safe from the risk of recurring conflict.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source
“Through improved coordination, we should work to address parallel or competing governance structures, which do more harm than good. President Karzai's new Afghanization strategy is built upon a workable and reliable partnership between the Government of Afghanistan and the international community. My Government and the Afghan people are very grateful for the continuing commitment and generosity of our international partners and friends. We recognize that a partnership based on respect and realism is Vital to our success. Understandably, we have different expectations, different timelines and different priorities. We can avoid fragmentation and confusion only through mutual understanding, open communication and an awareness of our shared goals. Our efforts will take time to bear fruit. This process cannot be hurried.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source
“Job creation and agricultural development in particular are central elements that will cement short-term gains, improve social cohesiveness and promote political normalization. In addition, there must be a focus on education to help build capacity, promote social stability and confront extremism. A crucial piece of the London strategy is the central role of the Government of Afghanistan in coordinating and leading those efforts as Afghans take greater responsibility for their country. With regard to development assistance, a much better job is required to improve its efficiency. To date, only 20 per cent of such aid has gone through Afghanistan's national budget; 80 per cent of assistance has been channelled on a bilateral basis. In short, we must Afghanize development priorities.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source
“Thirdly, we will offer former combatants and those willing to join the peace process a chance for a peaceful life and a decent future through a reconciliation and reintegration process. That is a good alternative for ending the continuing insecurity in parts of the conflict and an important way of isolating extremists and terrorists and ensuring that Afghans will continue to choose peace over violence. Fourthly, although those elements will promote peace and stabilization, the only way to guarantee the sustainability of progress is to anchor society on a foundation of long-term socio-economic development. The Government of Afghanistan must be able to fund its programmes, support its people and decrease its dependence on international aid.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source
“First, if peace is to be sustainable, Afghans should be involved in their own security. The Afghan national security forces will play a central role. In the coming three to five years, intensified training and recruitment will enable those forces to begin to take the primary responsibility for the security and defence of the country and its citizens, thereby allowing the international community's role to evolve from a primary to a supporting one. 10-31721 Secondly, the Government of Afghanistan will engage more fully with all Afghan people and address their concerns in order to strengthen national unity and social stability. Improved capacity will allow the Government of Afghanistan to address corruption, strengthen good governance, end the culture of impunity and better serve the Afghan people.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source
“We still must focus more on improving good governance and fighting corruption. We must guarantee the long-term security of the Afghan people and more fully win their confidence. And we must foster the social well-being that is necessary for stability and peace. A few months ago, at the beginning of his new term, President Karzai proposed a strategy that was subsequently endorsed by the international community in London at the end of January. That strategy is focused on building lasting, sustainable peace and stability in the coming three to five years through the Afghanization of national ownership and leadership, by empowering and engaging Afghans themselves, by promoting long-term socio-economic development, and by undertaking new regional cooperation.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source
“To achieve success in defeating terrorism and improving security, more focus is required to address the main sources of insecurity. The problem of insecurity will not be solved so long as terrorist sanctuaries and safe havens in the region continue to provide terrorists with ideological, financial and logistical support. Regional cooperation is another essential element in achieving stability in Afghanistan. We continue our collaboration with regional countries - bilaterally, trilaterally and through other forums - to overcome the challenges in Afghanistan and in the region. Going forward, we must work to ensure the sustainability of our progress economically, politically and socially. Much remains to be done. We must build the capacity of the Afghan Government and the strength of its institutions so that it can stand on its own feet.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source
“Nonetheless, they are not the only answer. That is why we have embarked upon a comprehensive strategy that includes military, political and economic efforts. As an important element of our security strategy, the role of international forces and the manner in which they operate are crucial. More needs to be done to ensure the protection of civilian populations. We emphasize the need for the utmost care and precision during combat operations to avoid civilian casualties. It is also essential that international forces conduct their duties with strict adherence to cultural sensitivities and in close coordination with Afghan security forces. By the same token, we appreciate the new approach of NATO Commander General Stanley McChrystal, which places added emphasis on the protection of the civilian population.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source
“This year, for the first time, the Afghan Government has taken in more than $1 billion in revenues. The average Afghan income has jumped six- fold in the past four years. Change has also come in ways that are not visible. The Afghan people are more vocal, more engaged and more involved in the future of their country than ever before. We have a Vibrant media, an active civil society and well-informed citizens. Social structures are beginning to re-knit and a feeling of national unity is emerging. We are proud of our accomplishments to date, but we still face daunting challenges. Security remains Afghanistan's number one challenge. Terrorists are still intent on jeopardizing our progress and are trying to take Afghanistan back to the days of tyranny and oppression. In stabilizing Afghanistan, we know that military means are essential.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source
“In particular, I would like to recognize and offer thanks for the efforts of Japan in that area, including through the financing of programmes for disarmament, demobilization and reintegration and the disbandment of illegal and armed groups, as well as for hosting a comprehensive conference on peace and reconciliation in Tokyo last November. In addition, we have built and continue to improve the Afghan National Army and Police through recruiting, training and equipping. They are beginning to take primary responsibility for providing security for the people and the country. In rebuilding Afghanistan's shattered infrastructure, we have built thousands of miles of roads with the help of the Council, as well as hundreds of schools and clinics, local wells, and improved irrigation systems. We have seen immense economic growth.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source
“Afghans have forcefully renounced the totalitarian rule of the Taliban and established a Government through three successful elections, including the most recent presidential election, run entirely by Afghans. The Afghan Government is becoming more efficient and effective every day, and is increasing its capacity to provide governance and services to the people. More than three quarters of Afghans now have access to basic health care. Millions of children now have the opportunity to attend school, many for the first time. We have addressed the legacy of violence through a comprehensive disarmament and reintegration programme that has successfully reintegrated thousands of former fighters into society.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source
“Millions more were forced to flee from their country - among them, a large number of technocrats and educated Afghans. Continuous conflict during this period crippled the social fabric of the country. Further, the ongoing political and social instability bred networks of terrorists, extremists, criminals, drug dealers and opportunistic regional elements that depend on insecurity in Afghanistan and the region. A nexus of drugs, extremism and crime fed on the chaos and anarchy that now seriously threatens our efforts to build peace. Despite the challenges, we have achieved remarkable success in nine years, establishing a convincing basis for optimism for the future of the country.”
2010-04-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6299 (2010) · source