DUSHANBE, September 24, 2014, Asia-Plus — The United States applauds presidential candidates Dr. Abdullah Abdullah and Dr. Ashraf Ghani for signing an agreement on the formation of a government of national unity.
“Signing this political agreement helps bring closure to Afghanistan”s political crisis, and restores confidence in the way forward. We support this agreement and stand ready to work with the next administration to ensure its success,” a statement released by the White House said.
“As the two Afghan candidates recognized in their August 8 Joint Declaration, the people of Afghanistan deserve an effective and legitimate government to realize a better future for their country. Millions of Afghans braved insecurity and threats to vote for Dr. Abdullah and Dr. Ghani, and this agreement respects the Afghan people”s collective determination. Reaching this agreement required difficult choices, partnership and compromise on the part of both candidates, and the outcome of their talks prioritizes the recognized needs of the Afghan nation ahead of politics or individual power.
“This agreement marks an important opportunity for unity and increased stability in Afghanistan. We continue to call on all Afghans – including political, religious, and civil society leaders — to support this agreement and to come together in calling for cooperation and calm.
“Respect for the democratic process is the only viable path for Afghanistan to continue its progress toward a secure and stable future, and ensure the continued support of the United States and the international community. We look forward to resolution of the electoral process with the announcement of the election outcome, the inauguration of a new President and appointment of a Chief Executive, and the conclusion of the Bilateral Security Agreement and NATO Status Of Forces Agreement that will enable and reinforce our strategic partnership and our commitment to support a future of stability for Afghanistan.”
We will recall that former Finance Minister Ashraf Ghani was named Afghanistan”s president-elect on September 21 after he signed a deal to share power with his opponent, Abdullah Abdullah, ending months of turmoil over a disputed election that destabilized the country as most foreign troops prepare to leave.
In this agreement Ghani was made president and Abdullah is expected to take a new position known as the chief executive officer. Abdullah could also appoint someone else to the post.
