On Surprise Visit to Afghanistan, Obama Pledges No Let-up in War against Terrorism
US President Barack Obama has made a surprise, brief visit to Afghanistan and flown out of the country, said media reports.
During six-hour visit, Obama rallied US troops and held discussions with Afghan President Hamid Karzai, who was reportedly told about American president’s visit merely an hour before touchdown, said reports.
Obama made a rousing speech to troops, pledging there would be no let-up in the war against terrorism, said reports.
“We are going to disrupt and dismantle, defeat and destroy al-Qaeda and its extremist allies. That is our mission and to accomplish that goal our objectives here in Afghanistan are also clear. We’re going to deny al-Qaeda safe haven,” he was quoted as saying.
During a half-hour meeting, Obama told Karzai that progression on fighting corruption should match military gains, reports said.
Obama reminded his Afghan ally that progress still needed to be made on good governance, rule of law, and anti-corruption efforts before the country could achieve prosperity, security and independence, said reports.
Needless to add, a perception in the US that Karzai is tolerant of corruption has sapped support for the war in America.
Karzai hoped that their partnership would go on for a stable and strong Afghanistan capable of sustaining itself, said reports.
