Press Release

Date of Release: 25 September 2006

President Karzai in Washington DC for Official Visit

Blair House, Washington DC - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic
Republic of Afghanistan, is in Washington DC for his official visit to the
United States.

President Karzai arrived in Washington on Sunday, following his official
visit to Canada. Upon his arrival, the President visited Walter Reed
hospital and met with American soldiers injured while serving in
Afghanistan. He expressed the deep appreciation of the people of
Afghanistan for their sacrifices

On Monday President Karzai met with John P Walters, Director of the White
House Office of National Drug Control Policy and H.E. Donald Rumsfeld, the
US Secretary of Defense.

In his meeting with Mr. Walters, the President evaluated the current
situation of the war against narcotics in Afghanistan. He expressed the
strong commitment of the Government of Afghanistan to take greater
responsibility for eradication of poppy fields and interdiction and arrest
of traffickers. On the other hand, the international community must
increase the resources available to formulate and implement a comprehensive
alternative livelihoods program.

In his meeting with Secretary Rumsfeld, the President thanked the US
government for its assistance to Afghanistan's institution building and
reconstruction over the past four years. They discussed Afghanistan's
numerous achievements, including the Parliamentary and Presidential
elections, the drafting of the Afghan constitution and the return of over 4
million refugees. Progress of the Afghan National Army and National Police
and NATO's operations in the south were also discussed. The President
praised US continued role with NATO. Secretary Rumsfeld reiterated the
long-term commitment of the United States government to supporting
Afghanistan's reconstruction and institution building. In particular, he
emphasized the need for strengthening Afghanistan's national security
institutions so that they could take on greater responsibility in the war
against terrorism and creating a securing environment for the Afghan people.

Preceding the President's meeting was a full Honor Guard ceremony on the
Pentagon lawn, during which Afghanistan's national anthem was played before
a distinguished audience of Afghan and American officials.

Following his meeting with Secretary Rumsfeld, the President met with a
group of high-level U.S. business executives who are part of the Businesses
Building Bridges (BBB) initiative. The executives included David Murdock,
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dole Food Company, Inc.; Len Rodman,
Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, Black & Veatch
Corporation; Carol Bartz, Executive Chairman of the Board, Autodesk, Inc.;
Barbara Barrett, Owner and President, Triple Creek Guest Ranch; Joie Gregor,
Vice-Chairman, Heidrick and Struggles; Irv Bailey, Senior Advisor, Chrysalis
Ventures; and Mike McCullough, former Chief Executive Officer, Booz Allen
Hamilton, Inc.

The BBB initiative was launched on January 30, 2006 by President Karzai and
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to highlight the importance of the
private sector in Afghanistan's reconstruction. High-level U.S. business
leaders were selected to offer strategic vision and guidance to Afghan
leaders on how to activate private sector growth in their country. The BBB
leaders will develop a set of recommendations for the Afghan government on
ways to aid and promote the private sector. The participants in today's
meeting discussed the private sector's role in economic redevelopment. The
President encouraged these corporations to pursue a relationship with
Afghanistan's business community. In the near future, the BBB delegation led
by Robert Mosbacher, the President of OPIC and Daniel Sullivan, the
Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs will travel
to Kabul to follow up on issues discussed during the meeting.

The Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars hosted President Karzai
on Monday, where he spoke on the importance of international cooperation in
Afghanistan.

Addressing terrorism the President said, "By far the biggest threat facing
Afghanistan today is still terrorism. Regrettably, despite their defeat in
Afghanistan five years ago, terrorists have not been eliminated from the
region.no matter how many battles we fight and win against terrorists on the
Afghan soil, the war will only be won if we dismantle the sources of
terrorism - its ideological, financial and military networks - outside our
border. State elements relying on religious radicalism as an instrument of
policy must be removed. We must close those terrorist hotbeds which call
themselves Madrassas or religious schools. These schools do not teach
religion but preach hatred and train suicide bombers."

The president highlighted the links between narcotics and terrorism and
said, "Afghanistan is firmly committed to the fight against narcotics.
Just as fighting terrorism demands international cooperation, fighting narcotics
requires the same, as both are transnational problems. Strong and
coordinated efforts across the international community are necessary to
overcome these menaces."

On better governance the President stated that he is vigorously working on
enhancing government oversight, especially at the local level, improving
judiciary and taking strong anti-corruption measures. By improving these
inter-connected areas, the Afghan government will improve its capacity to
deliver services to the population, improve security, and deepen the trust
and confidence of the people in state institutions.

The President concluded his remarks by emphasizing Afghanistan's commitment
to the global war against terror stating, "We have a joint vision for
Afghanistan - a vision of prosperity, democracy and a dignified existence
among the community of nations. We Afghans have given great sacrifices in
two of the world's wars for freedom: the war against communism and the war
against terrorism. We will continue to partner with you in the future, but
we expect that our friends will stand firm with us as we strengthen the
foundation of our new democracy and strive for lasting peace and security
today."

On Monday evening the President was honored, through an official ceremony at
the Gaston Hall, Georgetown University, with an honorary Doctorate of Laws,
Honoris Causa. President Karzai thanked Georgetown University and noted its
partnership with Afghanistan and their initiatives to assist the health,
education, and commerce and trade sectors.

"I thank Georgetown University for being Afghanistan's partner and friend.
Over the last five years we have taken steps to rebuild a stable and
pluralistic society. From the Afghanistan Reconstruction Summits in 2002
and 2003 to the London Conference earlier this year, Georgetown and
President DeGioia have been our friends every step of the way."

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 17 September 2006

President Karzai Left for the United States of America and Canada

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, left for the United States of America this morning to attend
the 61st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York and to
pay official visits to Ottawa, Canada, and Washington DC.

The President is accompanied on this trip by H.E. Dr. Rangin Dadfar Spanta,
Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Dr. Zalmay Rasoul, National Security
Advisor, H.E. Hanif Atmar, Minister of Education, H.E. Ehsan Zia, Minister
of Rural Development, H.E. Hosn Banu Ghazanfar, Minister of Women's Affairs,
H.E. Dr. Najibullah Mojaddedi, Advisor to the President on Health Affairs
and H.E. Jawed Ludin, Chief of Staff to the President.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 14 September 2006

President Karzai Will Leave for the United States of America and Canada

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, will leave for the United States of America to attend the 61st
session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York and to pay
official visits to Ottawa, Canada, and Washington DC.

The President will address the 61st session of the United Nations General
Assembly on a wide range of issues related to Afghanistan.

In New York, the President will also attend the UNICEF high level symposium
entitled "Reduce Child Mortality" and the Clinton Global Peace
Initiative entitled "Making Multiculturalism Work," address the Asia Society and
will visit the New York Stock Exchange.

The President will hold bilateral meetings with heads of states from around
the world attending the United Nations General Assembly.

After the Assembly, the President will leave the US for an official visit to
Canada.

During his official visit to Ottawa, the President will meet with H.E.
Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, and other senior Canadian
officials to discuss issues related to Canada's assistance to Afghanistan.

The President will also address the Parliament of Canada on a wide range of
issues related to Afghanistan and thank the people and Government of Canada
for their generous assistance to the reconstruction and security of
Afghanistan in the past five years.

After the visit to Canada, the President will leave Canada for a four-day
official visit to Washington DC.

During his official visit to Washington, the President will meet with H.E.
George W. Bush, President of the United States of America, H.E. Dick Cheney,
Vice President of the United States of America, H.E. Dr. Condoleezza Rice,
Secretary of State, H.E. Donald Rumsfeld, Secretary of Defence, US Senators
and Representatives and other senior US government officials.

President Karzai and President Bush will discuss the need to continue
cooperating in areas of mutual interest including: expanding good
governance, countering the threat of militant extremists, stemming
narco-trafficking and rebuilding Afghanistan's economy and infrastructure
after decades of conflict.

The President will receive a special award from Georgetown University and
address 700 guests consisting of the university's Board of Directors,
faculty staff and students along with other guests.

During this visit, the President will visit the Walter Reed military
hospital to meet with American soldiers who were wounded during the global
fight against terrorism in Afghanistan.

The President will address the Woodrow Wilson International Center for
Scholars and a business forum co-hosted with US Department of Commerce.

The President will also meet with CEO's of major US companies as part of the
Business Building Forum Initiative.

The President will also visit Florida to meet with senior military officials
from the Central Command.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 13 September 2006

President Karzai Returns to Kabul after His Visit to the Province of
Nangarhar

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, returned to Kabul this afternoon after his visit to the
province Nangarhar.

President Karzai and Prime Minister Shuakat Aziz inaugurated the
Torkham-Jalalabad highway and the start of the work on its second part in
the city of Jalalabad this afternoon.

The inaugural ceremony was attended from Afghanistan side by H.E. Hamid
Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, H.E. Suhrab Ali
Safari, Minister of Public Works, Gul Agha Sherzai, Governor of Nangarhar
province and a number of MPs and from the Pakistani side by Shuakat Aziz,
Prime Minister, Muhammad Ali Durrani, Minister of Information, Shamim
Seddiqi, Minister of Transportation.

Suhrab Ali Safari, Minister of Public Works, thanked Prime Minister Shuakat
Aziz for his country's assistance to the construction of the
Torkham-Jalalabad highway and said "The Torkham-Jalalabad highway has been
constructed with 74 km in length and 7m in width and with US$ 17 million in
funding from the Government of Pakistan."

Prime Minister Shuakat Aziz addressing the gathering said "Afghanistan and
Pakistan have strong historical, cultural and religious ties, and stability
and reconstruction in Afghanistan is in the interest of Pakistan."

"Pakistan is not able to provide assistance to other countries, but we
will
play our role in the reconstruction of Afghanistan."

The President thanked Prime Minister Shuakat Aziz for his country's
assistance to construction of the Torkham-Jalalabad highway and said "I am
happy to meet you in the historic province of Nangarhar at a time when a
major highway project has been completed and this highway is for the benefit
of both countries. I am happy that Pakistan stresses the need for
strengthening security and reconstruction in Afghanistan."

"Progress in the reconstruction of Afghanistan will have a direct impact
on the growth of our economy and improve the lives of people. Completion of the
Torkham-Jalalabad highway will not only boost Afghanistan's economy, but it
will also increase trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan and create
employments for the people of Pakistan."

Speaking about terrorism the President said "The dismal phenomenon of
terrorism doesn't represent any ethnicity or nation and terrorists are those
who inflict harm to people on both side of the border and we must unite to
fight this menace and save our people."

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 11 September 2006

President Karzai Calls the Terrorist Attack on the Funeral Ceremony of Hakim
Taniwal as Animosity Against Islam and the People of Afghanistan

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, called the terrorist attack on the funeral ceremony of Hakim
Taniwal as animosity against Islam and the people of Afghanistan.

According to preliminary reports, a terrorist attack occurred during the
funeral ceremony of Hakim Taniwal in the Tanai district of the province of
Khost this afternoon, killing 6 people and injuring more than 10 people.

The President called this heinous act of terrorism as an act against Islam
and humanity and said "The enemies of Afghanistan, by carrying out a
terrorist attack on the funeral ceremony of Hakim Taniwal, showed that they
are not only against the traditions and cultures of Afghans, but also
against Islamic law.

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the
families of the victims and prayed for the full and speedy recovery of the
injured.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

A Message to the People of the United States by H.E. Hamid Karzai, President
of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

On the Occasion of the Fifth Anniversary of September 11

The Afghan people join me in expressing my strong solidarity with the People
of the United States as you mark the 5th anniversary of the September 11
terrorist attacks. We understand the tremendous loss you endured that day
for we also have suffered for long at the hands of terrorism

For many years, the Afghan people were held hostage in their own country,
and subjected to unspeakable atrocities, by foreign terrorists and their
Taliban friends. The suffering of the Afghan people was neglected and our
pleas to the world to confront the growing threat of terrorism remained
unheard. Regrettably, it took the tragedy of 9-11 for the world to
appreciate the gravity of the threat that international terrorism posed to
the security of the world.

After 9-11, the United States led an international coalition against
terrorism and helped the people of Afghanistan liberate their country from
Al Qaeda and the Taliban.

The progress of the last five years in Afghanistan would not have been
possible without American sacrifice and support. The battle against
international terrorism didn't end with the defeat of al Qaeda and the
Taliban; it continues today in Afghanistan and in many other parts of the
world. The world must continue the fight against the menace of terrorism
with greater resolve and dedication.

I take this opportunity to express the deep appreciation of the Afghan
people to the people of the United States for the sacrifices of your sons
and daughters in Afghanistan, and for your generous support to the
rebuilding of our country.

Thank you.

Press Release

Date of Release: 10 September 2006

President Karzai Strongly Condemns the Killing of the Governor of Paktiya

Presidential Palace, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic
Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemns the suicide attack in Gardez,
Paktiya which killed Mohammad Hakeem Taniwal, the governor of the province
of Paktiya.

According to reports, a suicide bomber had been waiting outside Mr.
Taniwal's office and blew himself up as the Governor left, killing him, his
nephew and bodyguard instantly and injuring many others.

In his reaction to the news, the President said: "The enemies of
Afghanistan are trying to kill those people who are working for the peace and prosperity
of Afghanistan. The enemies of Afghanistan must understand that we have
millions of people like Mr. Taniwal who will continue to serve this great
nation."

"Mr. Taniwal was a patriot, a man of both action and academic
achievements. He was also a personal friend of mine, who returned from abroad to serve his nation. I am deeply saddened by this crime and I strongly condemn the
killing of Mr. Taniwal."

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the
families of Mr. Taniwal and other victims and prayed for the full and speedy
recovery of the injured.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 05 September 2006

President Karzai Strongly Condemns Yesterday's Terrorist Attack on
Kabul-Jalalabad Road

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, strongly condemned yesterday's terrorist attack on
Kabul-Jalalabad road which killed five people, including one ISAF soldier.

The President expressed his deep regret at the death of innocent people and
said "This terrorist act is shocking and despicable and I condemn it in
the
strongest terms. The enemies of Afghanistan showed their barbarity by
killing innocent civilians, shopkeepers and passers-by who were the
breadwinners of their families."

"The enemies of Afghanistan must understand that they will be held
accountable for these atrocities and we will ultimately ensure peace in our
country."

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the
families of the victims and prayed for the full and speedy recovery of the
injured.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 03 September 2006

President Karzai Is Saddened by the Death of 14 British Soldiers

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, was deeply saddened by the unfortunate death of 14 British
soldiers.

According to reports, the Royal Air Force Nimrod MR2 aircraft crashed due to
a mechanical fault in the province of Kandahar on Saturday, killing 14
British military personnel.

In his reaction to the news the President said "These British soldiers
lost their lives for the sake of peace in Afghanistan and the people of
Afghanistan will never forget their sacrifices. These soldiers lost their
lives during the fight against global terrorism."

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his
heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to
the people and Government of Britain.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 02 September 2006

President Karzai Expresses His Regret at the Death of 29 People in Iran

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, expressed his deep regret at the unfortunate death of 29 people
in Iran

According to reports, a passenger plane has skidded off a runway and bursted
in flames in Iran's north-eastern city of Mashhad, killing 29 people on
board.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his
heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to
the people and Government of Iran, and prayed for the full and speedy
recovery of the injured.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 28 August 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Terrorist Attack in the Province of Helmand

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, strongly condemned the terrorist attack in the city of
LashkarGah, Helmand province, killing 17 civilians and wounding 47.

The enemies of Afghanistan detonated a bomb in a crowded market opposite a
police station in the city of LashkarGah Monday, killing 17 innocent
civilians.

In his reaction to the news the President said "This heinous act of
terrorism is the work of the enemies of Afghanistan and I condemn it in the
strongest terms."

"The enemies of Afghanistan, at the instruction of foreigners, carried out
today's vicious attack, killing innocent people who were the breadwinners of
the poorest families."

The President emphasized that the perpetrators of this heinous act of
terrorism will be brought to justice.

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the
families of the victims and prayed for the full and speedy recovery of the
injured.

The President instructed the relevant authorities to identify the
perpetrators of this vicious attack and bring them to justice.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 28 August 2006

President Karzai Assigns the Attorney General to Take Decisive Actions
Against Corruption

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, assigned Abdul Jabbar Sabbit, the Attorney General of
Afghanistan, to take widespread and decisive actions against corruption and
bribery and to fight every types of corruption in the Government offices.

In today's cabinet meeting, the President instructed the Attorney General to
take widespread and decisive actions against the perpetrators of corruption
and said to the cabinet: "I am assigning the Attorney General to crack
down, arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of corruption in the Government
offices. I am assigning him to take decisive actions in eliminating
corruption at all levels, even if its tentacles reach high levels of the
Government, and to present a report to me."

Attorney General Sabbit was invited to the cabinet meeting to report on the
current status of corruption in the country.

The President called on the Cabinet Ministers to spare no effort in
co-operating with the Attorney General and other relevant authorities to
eliminate corruption and bribery in the Government offices.

The President instructed the Attorney General to start implementing the
administrative reform, beginning with the Attorney General office in order
to create an efficient and corrupt-free office.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 28 August 2006

President Karzai Expresses His Regret at the Death of 49 People in the
United States of America

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, expressed his deep regret at the unfortunate death of 49 people
in Kentucky, the United States of America.

According to reports, a passenger plane carrying 50 people crashed shortly
after taking off from an airport in Kentucky, killing all but one on board.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his
heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to
people and Government of the United States of America.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Press Release

Press Release

Date of Release: 23 August 2006

President Karzai Expresses His Regret at the Death of 170 People in Russia

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, expressed his deep regret at the unfortunate death of 170
people in Russia.

According to reports, a Russian Tu-154 passenger jet airliner with 171
persons aboard crashed in Ukraine on Tuesday after flying into a
thunderstorm.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his
heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to
the people and Government of Russia.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Press Release

Press Release

Date of Release: 22 August 2006

President Karzai Receives Phone Call from President Bush

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, received a phone call from H.E. George W. Bush, President of
the United States of America this afternoon.

Both Presidents talked about the situation in Afghanistan and the region,
they discussed the progress in Afghanistan, with the help from the United
States, is making in fighting terrorism and rebuilding Afghanistan.

President Bush invited President Karzai to visit Washington D.C. in the
near future. President Bush assured President Karzai of the continued and
long term U.S. support for Afghanistan.

They also discussed developments in the region.

President Karzai thanked President Bush for his and the U.S.'s continued
support to Afghanistan and said that he looked forward to visiting the
U.S. in the near future.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 22 August 2006

President Karzai Expresses His Regret at the Death of 58 People in Egypt

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, expressed his deep regret at the unfortunate death of 58 people
in Egypt.

According to reports, one commuter train slammed into another at about 7
a.m. at the edge of a cornfield outside this town 20 kilometers north of
Cairo, killing at least 58 people and injuring more than 140.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his
heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to
the people and Government of Egypt.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 20 August 2006

President Karzai Initiates the Second Phase of Polio Vaccination Campaign

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of
Afghanistan, today initiated the second phase of polio vaccination campaign
in the presidential compound by dripping two drops of polio vaccine into the
mouth of Afghan children.

In a three-day campaign starting on 20th of August 2006 more than 45
thousand vaccinators, health workers and volunteers will go house-to-house
across the country to immunize more than 7.3 million children under the age
of five.

The health teams from the Ministry of Health will work in close partnership
with the UN agencies to eradicate polio and ensure that no Afghan child
slips through the net.

The President and the Minister of Health called on Afghan families to use
this opportunity and vaccinate their children to ensure a polio-free
Afghanistan.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 05 August 2006

Head and Members of the Supreme Court of Afghanistan Were Sworn In By
President Karzai

Arg, Kabul - In accordance with the Constitution of Afghanistan, head and
members of the Supreme Court of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan were
sworn in during a special ceremony by H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, in the presidential palace.

The ceremony was attended by Vice Presidents, Head and Members of the
Parliament of Afghanistan, H.E. Fazl Hadi Shinwari, Jihadi leaders, members
of the Cabinet and other senior Government authorities.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 02 August 2006

President Karzai Introduces the Five Remaining Ministers to the Parliament of Afghanistan for Approval

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, in accordance with the Constitution of Afghanistan introduced the five cabinet ministers through the Office of Administration Affairs to the Parliament of Afghanistan for approval:

1. Mr. Nematullah Ehsan Jawed As Minister of Transport and Aviation
2. Mr. Said Muhammad Amin Farhang As Minister of Commerce and Industries
3. Mr. Muhammad Jalil Shams As Minister of Economy and Labour
4. Mr. Abdul Karim Khuram As Minister of Culture and Youth
5. Ms Hosn Banu Ghazanfar As Minister of Women's Affairs

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 01 August 2006

President Karzai Offers His Congratulations to Head and Members of the Supreme Court of Afghanistan on Obtaining Approval from the Parliament of Afghanistan

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, offered his heartfelt congratulations to Abdul Salaam Azimi, Ali Behsoudi, Muhammad Umar Babrakzai, Ghulam Nabi Nawabi and Abdul Rashid Rashed on obtaining approval from the Parliament of Afghanistan.

The Parliament of Afghanistan gave a vote of confidence to Abdul Salaam Azimi as Chief Justice and Head of the Supreme Court of Afghanistan, Ali Behsoudi, Muhammad Umar Babrakzai, Ghulam Nabi Nawabi and Abdul Rashid Rashid as Members of the Supreme Court of Afghanistan.

The President called approval of the proposed Head and Members of the Supreme Court of Afghanistan as a significant achievement towards improving the country's judicial system, and thanked the Parliament of Afghanistan for giving the vote of confidence to the Head and Members of the Parliament in consideration of the people's interest.

The President wishes the Head and Members of the Supreme Court of Afghanistan successes in serving the people of Afghanistan and reforming the country's judicial system.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 31 July 2006

On Transfer of International Forces Command from the US to NATO

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, on the occasion of the transfer of the command of international forces in the South of Afghanistan from the US led coalition to NATO, expressed his gratitude to the coalition forces, led by the United Stations for their invaluable service over the past four and half years, and wished the NATO Command success in carrying the mission forward.

Through a special ceremony in Kandahar this morning, the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation officially took over command of the international forces operating in the South of Afghanistan. The President called the transfer of command an indication of NATO's strong and sustained commitment to a peaceful and stable Afghanistan.

The President expressed tremendous appreciation for the leadership of the United States Military in the fight against terrorism and bringing security to Afghanistan over the past four years. He also expressed confidence that under NATO's leadership, the international forces will carry out their historical mission in Afghanistan in a successful manner.

The President said that the participation of other NATO member countries, alongside the US, will strengthen the war against terrorism that Afghanistan and the international community are collectively fighting.

The President also thanked the US for reassuring the people of Afghanistan that the transfer of command did not represent any change in the strong and longterm commitment of the United States to stay with the Afghan people until we stand on our own feet.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 31 July 2006

President Karzai Calls the Bombing at the Prayer Ceremony of Mawlawi Khalis as Disrespect to Jihad Leaders

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the bombing at the prayer ceremony of Mawlawi Khalis.
The enemies of the people of Afghanistan detonated a bomb near the Hada Jami mosque in Jalalabad while people were giving prayer to the late Mawlawi Khalis, one of Afghanistan's Jihadi leaders, killing 4 policemen and 4 civilian and injuring 16 others.

The President called this cowardly act of terrorism as a symbol of clear animosity towards the values of Islam and disrespect to our traditions.

The President said “This heinous act is not the work of Afghans as the people of Afghanistan never resort to violence at religious and prayer ceremonies.”

The President expressed his deep sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the full and speedy recovery of the injured.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 31 July 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Killing of Civilians in Lebanon

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the killing of 57 civilians by Israeli air strike in Lebanon.
The President expressed his concern at the continuation of war and civilian casualties and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a ceasefire.
The President called on the international community to assist in seeking a peaceful settlement to the current crisis.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his deep sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Lebanon.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 31 July 2006

President Karzai Instructed That Emergency Aid Be Provided to the Families Affected by the Earthquake in Kunduz Province

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, instructed the relevant local authorities to provide emergency aid to the families affected by the earthquake in the Imam Sahib district of Kunduz province.

According to reports, a 5.2 magnitude earthquake happened around 03:30 AM in Kotarma village of Imam Sahib district on Saturday, killing 2 people and injuring 14 others. 50 houses were completely destroyed and 368 houses were partially destroyed in the earthquake.

The President expressed his deep sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims of this natural disaster

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 27 July 2006

President Karzai Expresses Regret at the Death of 16 People due to a Helicopter crash

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expressed his regret at the death of all the sixteen people on board a helicopter that went down in southern province of Paktia on Wednesday.

The Russian-made MI-8 helicopter crashed in a mountain in the district of Janikhel of Khost while returning to Kabul.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his sympathies and condolences to the families and relatives of the victims.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 24 July 2006

The Enemies of Afghanistan Want to Ensure that our People Remain Dependent on Other Countries for Health Treatment

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the killing of an Afghan pharmacist working for international relief group World Vision and his driver in the province of Ghor.

The enemies of Afghanistan attacked a World Vision vehicle in the province of Ghor on Monday, killing an Afghan pharmacist and his driver. They were returning from a medical supply mission to a village in Ghor province when they were attacked.

In his reaction to the news the President said "The enemies of Afghanistan, at the instruction of foreigners, kill those who are providing healthcare to the poorest communities throughout the country."

"This despicable act of terrorism was aimed at depriving the people of Afghanistan of their right to healthcare and ensuring that Afghanistan remains dependent on other countries' medical assistance for ever."

"This is the work of foreign mercenaries who are trying to hinder reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan. Afghans will continue to rebuild their country despite subversive activities by the terrorists. Afghans never kill medical staff."

The President ordered the relevant authorities to identify the perpetrators of this attack and bring them to justice.

The President expressed his deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release  

Date of Release: 23 July 2006

Recent Bombings by the Enemies of Afghanistan Clearly Aims at Increase in Civilian Casualties 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned yesterday's terrorist bombings in which several innocent people were killed.

The enemies of Afghanistan carried out these attacks in southern Kandahar and a little while after the first explosion the enemies of Afghanistan detonated another bomb at the site of first explosion where people had gathered. This clearly indicates that the terrorists aimed at increasing the number of civilian casualties.

In his reaction to the news the President said “This is a heinous act of terrorism and I condemn it in the strongest terms. The enemies of Afghanistan once again showed that they have always shed the blood of Muslims and innocent people and are trying to hinder the progress of our country's reconstruction.”

“These barbaric acts of terrorism are clearly against Islam and humanity and are aimed at disrupting the peace and reconstruction processes in Afghanistan .”

The President expressed his deep sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the full and speedy recovery of the injured. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 13 July 2006

President Karzai Makes a Phone Call to Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, made a phone call to his H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of the Republic of India and expressed his and the Afghan people's deepest sympathies and condolences for the massive loss of lives due to Tuesday's terrorist attacks in Mumbai , India .

The President said that the Afghan people felt the pain of the Indian people because the Afghan people have also suffered tremendously at the hands of the terrorists. The President said that he wanted to convey the feelings of the Afghan people to the people of India and to express support at this difficult moment.

“ India is too great, too cultured and too ancient a nation to suffer a terrible violence such as Tuesday's attacks. These attacks show that terrorism is our enemy and that we all need to join hands stronger than before to defeat terrorism.”

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh thanked the President for the phone call and expressed his gratitude for the Afghan people's friendship and support. He concurred the President that fighting our common enemy “terrorism” requires that we join hands and fight this menace decisively.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release

Date of Release: 09 July 2006

President Karzai Expresses His Deep Regret at the Death of 150 People in Russia  

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, expressed his deep regret at the death of 150 people in Russia .

According to reports, the Sibir Airbus A-310 plane was flying from Moscow when it crashed on landing at Irkutsk airport. The plane slid off the runway and hit a building at about 0800 on Sunday, killing 150 people and wounding 55.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan , expressed his sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Russia and prayed for the full and speedy recovery of the injured.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

At the
Tokyo Conference II
Consolidation of Peace in Afghanistan

Tokyo , Japan

5 July 2006

Madam Ogata,

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is such a great pleasure to be back in Japan .  I thank the Government of Japan for organizing this important Conference, and for receiving us so warmly and hospitably here in Tokyo .  I am also very pleased to see representatives from many nations and international institutions attending this Conference.

I begin by taking the opportunity to express, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, my profound gratitude to the people of Japan for their friendship and support, and in particular for the generous assistance provided to Afghanistan over the past four and half years. 

Since hosting the landmark donor conference in January 2002, which was a major first step towards mobilisation of direly needed humanitarian and reconstruction assistance, Japan has been at the forefront of the international community's effort to help rebuild Afghanistan .  From the reconstruction of infrastructure to rural development to education and health, Japan 's assistance has been a noticeable factor in the steady betterment of life for the Afghan people.  Above all, Japan 's contribution to the Security Sector Reform programme, mainly focusing on the disarmament, demobilization and re-integration of armed groups, has been crucial to restoring Afghanistan to a secure and peaceful country desired by the Afghan people.

Therefore, part of the aim of my coming to Japan was to say to the Japanese people: Thank you for your support!  Your support has been yet another testimony to the true friendship that has historically existed between our two countries, and we Afghans are proud of and will always cherish that friendship. 

This Conference, which follows in the path of the 1st Conference on Consolidation of Peace hosted by Japan in early 2003, is another valuable initiative that will help refocus the ongoing efforts of Afghanistan and our international partners on the priorities of the Security Sector Reform in general, and of the disarmament and demobilisation process in particular. 

Taking the privilege of opening and addressing this important conference, I reiterate the importance of the shared commitment of Afghanistan and our partners from the international community to the security sector reform process, as a strategy to establish and deepen security in our war-torn country.  I also believe it is timely that we review our progress, not only in the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration field, but also other aspects of the security sector, evaluate the present security environment and to explore ways that our remaining and present security challenges could be addressed in an effective manner.   

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I trust that most of you who have gathered here today are closely connected with developments in Afghanistan so I do not need to speak to you about the progress that Afghanistan has achieved in political, security and economic fields over the past four and half years.  I will take the time to dwell specifically on the security sector, and in particular on the challenges that are still ahead of us as we continue to work for a stable, democratic and prosperous Afghanistan . 

It goes without saying that progress in all other sectors in Afghanistan would not have been possible without improvement in the security situation and without our achievements in the various areas of security sector reform. 

When I came to Tokyo in January 2002, Afghanistan had just freed itself from a terrorist regime and driven out Al Qaida's alien network, but the security of our people was still perilously threatened by lawlessness, localised militias and a spread on a massive scale of weapons and armaments.  My vision then for the new Afghanistan was clear and simple – as I then shared it with representatives of the international community – but deep in my conscience that vision was overshadowed by a sense of anxiety about how would my country manage to move out of the grip of violence; how would we disband the militias; and above all, how would we create the legitimate institutions of state to take charge of securing the lives of our people.  Today, that shadow of uncertainty has been cleared.  Over the past four and half years, I have seen us working together with our partner in the international community, removing the obstacles one by one, and taking steady steps towards rebuilding institutions and providing security to our people. 

As a result, today the Afghan National Army, with its thirty thousand strong force, and the National Police with its 45000 strong force, have begun to regain their status and power as the sole legitimate dispensers of force in the country.  A lot of effort has gone into reviving and strengthening our justice system and we are seeing these efforts coming to fruition.  We have also made significant progress in dismantling many of the militia groups that dominated Afghanistan since the early 1990s.  Through the disarmament, demobilization and re-integration programme, over sixty thousands combatants have been disarmed and several hundred units decommissioned.  The DDR programme, as it is famously known in Afghanistan , has been a fitting response to the aspirations of the Afghan people in their eagerness to move away from war and violence towards a secure and peaceful society.

After successful completion of the DDR process, it was important to review the achievements and lessons learned from this experience and move towards initiating nationwide disarmament. 

I am pleased that with leadership from the Government of Japan and collaboration from other international partners, we have began, since June 2005, the Disbandment of Illegal Armed Groups (DIAG) programme to disband the several hundred illegal armed groups that are still believed to be in existence in Afghanistan.  Through a combination of law enforcement and development activities, the DIAG programme will help remove some of the underlying causes of insecurity and instability in Afghanistan .  We have made a commitment in the Afghanistan Compact to complete the DIAG process by the end of 2007, and together we will meet this commitment.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Make no mistake, however, that some of the most sinister threats to the security and wellbeing of our people still remain outstanding. 

As we speak many Afghans are losing their lives to acts of sheer brutality and murder that are perpetrated by terrorists who come mainly from outside our borders.  These terrorists are burning our schools, killing our community elders and attacking the international coalition forces who have come to help secure Afghanistan .  While there is currently a mighty struggle against terrorism going on in Afghanistan , this menace cannot be defeated by military means alone.  We must redouble our efforts on all dimensions of the war against terrorism, go after terrorists and their sources of training, inspiration and financing, and rid Afghanistan and the region from this threat. 

Terrorism is also deeply intertwined with drug trade which represents another major source of insecurity and potential instability in Afghanistan and the region.  We know now, perhaps more so than we did in the past, that terrorism and narcotics go hand-in-hand and that narcotics money, among other sources, feeds terrorism. 

The counter narcotics drive we have undertaken in Afghanistan , with cooperation from the international community, is strong and multi-faceted.  This fight must be sustained and expanded to address both the associated law and order challenge, and the needs for real measurable alternative livelihoods for the farmers.

More importantly, among the threats to the security of our people is the discernable weakness of police presence in our districts, particularly those areas affected by terrorism and insecurity.  A typical district in the South of Afghanistan with over 60 thousands population has only an average of 45 policemen.  It must, therefore, be a priority for the Government and for our international partners to focus on strengthening the presence of police force at the district level.  This will also be an important precondition for the implementation of the DIAG programme. 

Although the road ahead of us is long and arduous, I am confident that with continued commitment and cooperation we will meet the goals we have set ourselves, which are also the aspirations of the Afghan people.  Today, I reiterate Afghanistan 's commitment to continue to fight alongside the international community against the menaces of terrorism and narcotics.  The Afghan people are with you in this war, and they are with you for their own sake because they have suffered enormously and continue to suffer at the hands of these two evils.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Over the past four years, Afghanistan has gone through a remarkable transformation and as a result the Afghan people today live more secure lives, marked by historic and promising opportunities.  The Afghan people are determined to realize the vision of a stable, democratic and prosperous Afghanistan . 

With your help, we aspire to stand on our own feet, to determine our own destiny and live peacefully with the world as a member of the family of nations.  We realize that there many challenges and obstacles to overcome before we can realize our vision, but we are determined to keep the course that we have chosen.  We are confident that our friends in the international community share our vision and will continue to support us to achieve this goal.

Thank you!

Press Release

Date of Release: 5 July 2006

President Karzai Strongly Condemns the Bombings in Kabul City

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, who is currently attending the second conference on the “Consolidation of Peace in Afghanistan ” in Tokyo , strongly condemned the bombings in Kabul city.

According to reports, the enemies of Afghanistan detonated a bomb in the area of Khairkhana, killing one person and wounding four others.  

The second incident occurred when the enemies of Afghanistan detonated another bomb in a handcart as a bus drove by. The bus, carrying army officers, was struck, veered out of control and crashed into some shops, setting them on fire. At least 39 army officers were wounded as a result.

Upon hearing the news of the incidents the President expressed his deep regret and said “The enemies of Afghanistan once again showed by attacking innocent civilians that they want to bring misery and destruction to Afghanistan , but the people of Afghanistan will never allow this to happen.”

“Afghanistan will continue to rebuild its security institutions and these incidents will never hurt the desire of the Afghan people for a better future.”

The President ordered the relevant authorities to investigate the incidents and bring the perpetrators of these attacks to justice.”

The President expressed his deep sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the full and speedy recovery of the injured.  

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan   

Press Release

Date of Release: 29 June 2006

President Karzai Will Leave for Japan  

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, will leave for Japan next week to attend the conference on the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) and Disbandment of Illegal Armed Groups (DIAG) programmes and to make an official visit to Tokyo after the conference.  

The DDR and DIAG conference will be hosted by Japan and jointly chaired by the Governments of Afghanistan and Japan and the United Nations. The conference will be attended by high ranking representatives of countries and aid agencies involved in the reconstruction of Afghanistan .

The President will address the conference on many issues regarding the DDR and DIAG programmes and thank the people of Japan for their assistance to the implementation of the DRR and DIAG programmes.

Regarding the conference the President said, “In spite of many difficulties and concerns, the Government of Afghanistan stands firm to continue DIAG, believing that DIAG is inevitable for ensuring the rule of law in Afghanistan .”

“Backed by Afghan people's strong desire to get rid of all the illegal armed groups in Afghanistan and to make this country safe and prosperous, the Government of Afghanistan has committed itself to accomplish DIAG at any cost.”

“While many obstacles lie ahead, I am fully committed to achieving the benchmark of DIAG as stipulated in the Afghanistan Compact. The Government of Afghanistan will not allow any disruptions to the implementation of DIAG programme.”

During his official visit to Tokyo , the President will meet with H.E. Junichiro Koizumi, the Prime Minister of Japan, H.E. Taro Aso, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, H.E. Kanzaki, Head of KOMEI Party and the House of Representatives to discuss bilateral relations and other issues of mutual interest.

The President will address the students, teachers and researchers at the UN University in Tokyo on a wide range of issues relating to Afghanistan .

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 24 June 2006

President Karzai Is Awarded the Medal of Leadership and Good Governance by the Universal Peace Federation 

Arg, Kabul –H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, was awarded the medal of leadership and good governance by the representatives of the Universal Peace Federation at the Gulkhana Palace yesterday morning.

The Universal Peace Federation declared President Karzai the winner of the leadership and good governance medal for the year 2006.

The Universal Peace Federation was established fifty years ago and in the past five years this federation has awarded the strong personalities of the world the medal of leadership who have made significant efforts toward peace-building in the world.

Mr. Abdul Rahman Wahid, the former President of Indonesia and the former Head of the Parliament of Philippines are the recipients of this medal.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 24 June 2006

President Karzai Emphasizes the Significance of Further Coordination of Efforts in the Fight Against Terrorism

Arg, Kabul –H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, stressed the need for further coordination in the fight against terrorism during a special meeting of Government and international community representatives on security and development issues in the south of Afghanistan at the Gulkhana Palace this morning

The meeting was attended on the Government side by Ministers of National Defence and Interior,

National Security Advisor, Senior Advisor to the President on Economics, Director of NDS and Chief of Staff to the President and on the international community side by Ambassadors of Britain, Canada and the Netherlands, Representative of the Embassy of the United States of America, Commander of ISAF and Commander of the Coalition Forces in Afghanistan.

The President was given a briefing on counter-terrorist operation that is currently underway in the different provinces of Afghanistan .

The President instructed increased coordination with the international forces during the counter-terrorist operations. Specifically, the following were emphasized:

•  To enhance the role of tribal structures and community elders in counter-terrorist operations.

•  To ensure a safe environment for development projects and support to the communities

•  To identify the deeper causes and dynamics of terrorist activities

The President also emphasized the following:

•  Military operations by the Coalition forces should be conducted in coordination with the national police and army.

•  The local authorities and institutions should be consulted prior to any military operations. The role of tribal elders and chiefs is of vital importance.

•  Maximum caution should be exercised during the counter-terrorist operations and every effort should be made to avoid harm to the civilian population.

•  Efforts should continue to enhance the capacities of Government institutions, especially the national police and army.

•  Besides the tactical campaign against terrorism, attention should be paid to a strategic response         

          of terrorism

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

The People's Republic of China
And
The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
Beijing
20 June 2006 

Ⅰ . At the invitation of President Hu Jintao of the People's Republic of China , Hamid Karzai , President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan , paid a state visit to the People's Republic of China from 18 to 21 June 2006.

Ⅱ . President Hu Jintao held official talks with President Karzai. Mr. Wu Bangguo, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress and Mr. Jia Qinglin, Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, met with President Karzai respectively. In a cordial and friendly atmosphere, the leaders of the two countries had in-depth exchange of views and reached broad agreement on expanding and deepening China-Afghanistan relationship of good-neighborliness, friendship and cooperation, on international and regional issues of mutual interest.

During his visit, President Karzai gave two speeches to representatives of the Chinese academic and intellectual communities at the China Institute of Contemporary International Relations and Beijing University . He met with business leaders of the two countries to brief them on trade and investment opportunities in Afghanistan and had numerous interviews with the Chinese media.

Ⅲ . The leaders of the two countries spoke highly of the growth of bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1955 and expressed satisfaction with the rapid resumption and fast growth of bilateral relations after the formation of the Interim Administration of Afghanistan. Both sides held that enhancing China-Afghanistan good-neighborly relationship and mutually beneficial cooperation serves the fundamental interests of the two countries and their peoples, and contributes to peace, stability and development of the region and the world at large. The two sides agreed to establish China-Afghanistan Comprehensive and Cooperative Partnership in order to consolidate their traditional friendship and broaden cooperation in all fields.

Ⅳ . The two sides reaffirmed the guiding role of the Treaty of Friendship and Non-Aggression Between the People's Republic of China and the Kingdom of Afghanistan signed in 1960 in deepening the bilateral relationship and agreed to sign, on that basis, the Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation Between the People's Republic of China and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. The two sides agreed to abide by the principles of the Treaty and continue to enrich the partnership of all-round cooperation for the benefit of the two countries and their peoples and in the interest of peace, stability and development in the region.

Ⅴ . The Chinese side spoke highly of the achievements made by the Afghan Government and people in the peace process and economic reconstruction over the past four years since the beginning of the Bonn Process. The Chinese side expressed the hope and belief that with the concerted efforts of the Afghan Government and people, Afghanistan will realize enduring peace and prosperity in the nearest future. The Chinese side reiterated that it will continue to support and take an active part in Afghanistan 's economic reconstruction. China will provide Afghanistan with another 80 million RMB gratis this year. On behalf of the Afghan Government and people, President Karzai extended sincere thanks to the Chinese Government and people for their long time and selfless help to Afghanistan 's peaceful reconstruction. 

Ⅵ . The two sides held that trade and economic relations are an important part of China-Afghanistan good-neighborliness and friendly cooperation. To strengthen their trade and economic ties, the two sides decided to sign the Agreement on Trade and Economic Cooperation between the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, establish the China-Afghanistan Joint Economic and Trade Committee. Both parties agree to intensify cooperation in infrastructural areas such as natural resources development, power generation and road construction. To help increase Afghanistan 's export to China , the Chinese side announced that it would grant zero-tariff treatment to 278 items of Afghan exports to China as of 1 July 2006. The two sides will continue to explore new channels and ways to expand and deepen trade and economic cooperation.

Ⅶ . The two sides agreed to expand cooperation in agriculture, culture, education, transportation, energy and investment on the basis of equality and mutual benefit. To support Afghanistan 's national reconstruction, the Chinese side will train 200 Afghan professionals in the coming two years and will offer 30 government scholarships to Afghanistan annually starting from 2007.

Ⅷ . The two sides emphasized that strengthening cooperation in national defense, security and police affairs is an important part of their bilateral relationship. They will actively enhance cooperation in pragmatic terms in the aforementioned fields. 

Ⅸ . The Afghan side reaffirmed that there is only one China in the world that the Government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal Government representing the whole of China and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Chinese territory. The Afghan side expressed support to China's efforts in safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity and its opposition to any attempt of the Taiwan authorities to create “two Chinas”, “one China, one Taiwan” or “Taiwan independence”, including “de jure Taiwan independence”. The Chinese side reiterated that it respects the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan , supports its efforts to safeguard its independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and internal security, and opposes any attempt that will jeopardize Afghanistan 's stability.

Ⅹ . Both sides agreed that terrorism constitutes an international menace, as it poses a grave threat to world peace and security. China and Afghanistan are both victims of terrorism and they both firmly oppose terrorism of any form. The Chinese side supported Afghanistan 's efforts in combating terrorism and safeguarding national stability and is ready to work with the Afghan side to fight terrorism, separatism, extremism, organized crime as will as illegal immigration, drug trafficking and illegal arms trade. The Afghan side reaffirmed its strong support to the Chinese side in combating the three forces.

Ⅺ . The Chinese side appreciated the efforts of the Afghan side in promoting regional cooperation and welcomed Afghanistan 's relationship with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization within the context of “Contact Group Protocol”. The Chinese side expressed readiness to enter into cooperation in pragmatic terms with the Afghan side within the framework of regional cooperation. The Afghan side welcomed China becoming an observer of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and supported China in carrying out mutually beneficial cooperation with SAARC.

Ⅻ . During the visit, the two sides signed: Treaty of Good-Neighborly Friendship and Cooperation between the People's Republic of China and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Agreement on Cooperation between the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Combating Transnational Crime, Agreement on Trade and Economic Cooperation between the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation between the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan ， Exchange Letter for China Granting Zero Tariff Treatment to Certain Goods Originated in Afghanistan, Air Service Agreement between the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Protocol on Institutionalizing Consultations between Officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Agreement between the Chinese People's Liberation Army and the Afghanistan National Army on China's Provision of Military Aid Gratis for the Training of Military Personnel to Afghanistan, Memorandum of Understanding on Agricultural Cooperation between the Ministry of Agriculture of the People's Republic of China and the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Memorandum of Understanding between the State Administration of Cultural Heritage of the People's Republic of China and the Ministry of Information, Culture, Tourism and Youths of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on Cooperation in the Maintenance and Preservation of Cultural Heritage, Agreement of Cooperation between the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, Agreement of Cooperation between the Afghanistan Investment Support Agency and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade.

XIII. President Karzai invited President Hu Jintao to pay a state visit to Afghanistan at a time convenient to him. President Hu expressed his thanks for the invitation.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

29 June 2006

President Karzai Will Leave for Japan

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, will leave for Japan next week to attend the conference on the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) and Disbandment of Illegal Armed Groups (DIAG) programmes and to make an official visit to Tokyo after the conference.

The DDR and DIAG conference will be hosted by Japan and jointly chaired by the Governments of Afghanistan and Japan and the United Nations. The conference will be attended by high ranking representatives of countries and aid agencies involved in the reconstruction of Afghanistan.

The President will address the conference on many issues regarding the DDR and DIAG programmes and thank the people of Japan for their assistance to the implementation of the DRR and DIAG programmes.

Regarding the conference the President said, “In spite of many difficulties and concerns, the Government of Afghanistan stands firm to continue DIAG, believing that DIAG is inevitable for ensuring the rule of law in Afghanistan.”

“Backed by Afghan people’s strong desire to get rid of all the illegal armed groups in Afghanistan and to make this country safe and prosperous, the Government of Afghanistan has committed itself to accomplish DIAG at any cost.”

“While many obstacles lie ahead, I am fully committed to achieving the benchmark of DIAG as stipulated in the Afghanistan Compact. The Government of Afghanistan will not allow any disruptions to the implementation of DIAG programme.”

During his official visit to Tokyo, the President will meet with His Majesty Akihito, the Emperor of Japan, H.E. Junichiro Koizumi, the Prime Minister of Japan, H.E. Taro Aso, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, H.E. Kanzaki, Head of KOMEI Party and the House of Representatives to discuss bilateral relations and other issues of mutual interest.

The President will address the students, teachers and researchers at the UN University in Tokyo on a wide range of issues relating to Afghanistan.

For further information, please contact:
Office of the Spokesman to the President

Tel.: 00 93 799 33 77 55
00 93 799 90 94 29

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release  

Date of Release: 15 June 2006

President Karzai Strongly Condemns the Terrorist Attack in the Province of Kandahar  

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, who is currently attending the 5 th Summit of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation in China , strongly condemned the terrorist attack in the province of Kandahar , which killed 10 innocent Afghan laborers and wounded 15 others.

In his reaction to the news the President said: “This cowardly attack was the work of the enemies of Afghanistan who have always tried to spill innocent blood in our country. These innocent workers were the breadwinners of the poorest families and they were on their way to work, but the terrorists killed them.”

He further stated: “The enemies of Afghanistan deliberately targeted innocent civilians in today's vicious attack and I condemn the attack in the strongest terms.”

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the full and speedy recovery of the injured.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 13 June 2006

President Karzai Will Leave for China  

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, will leave for China to attend the “5 th Summit of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO)” and to make an official visit to Beijing after the summit.  

The President, as a special guest at the SCO summit, will address the 5 th Summit of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation on a wide range of issues.

On the fringes of the SCO summit , the President will hold meetings with H.E. Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, H.E. Pervez Musharraf, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, H.E. Islam Karimov, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Emomali Rahmonov, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, H.E. Kurmanbek Bakiyev, President of the Republic of Kyrgyzstan , H.E. Natsagiyn Bagabandi, President of Mongolia and Secretary General of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation to discuss bilateral relations, economic and social development in the region and the regional cooperation among the SCO member states.

During his official visit to Beijing , the President will meet with H.E. Hu Jintao, President of the People's Republic of China , and other high ranking Chinese officials to discuss bilateral relations and other issues of mutual interest.

The President will address students, teachers and researchers from Beijing University and China 's International Relations Institute on the expansion of relations between Afghanistan and the People's Republic of China , the fight against terrorism and other regional issues.

The Governments of Afghanistan and China will sign agreements on the expansion of trade ties, the establishing of counseling relations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of both countries, the strengthening of cooperation between the Chambers of Commerce and the Investment Support Institutions of both countries, the strengthening of cooperation between China and Afghanistan in the fight against drug trafficking, the strengthening of cooperation between the two countries in the areas of agriculture, customs tariffs and aerial services and the training of Afghanistan's military personnel.

The President will also visit the wind-powered electricity generation factories, the schemes of solar-generated electricity and dairy manufacturing plants in China 's Shian and Singiang cities bordering Afghanistan .

The President will leave China for Kazakhstan to attend the second conference on “Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia ” which will be held in Almata , Kazakhstan .   

The conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia aims to seek ways and means to promote confidence-building and to strengthen good neighborhood and cooperation among the SCO member states.

The President is accompanied to the SCO summit by H.E. Dr. Rangin Dadfar Spanta, Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Dr. Zalmay Rasoul, National Security Advisor, H.E. Dr. Eshaq Naderi, Senior Advisor to the President on Economics and H.E. Jawed Ludin, Chief of Staff to the President.

H.E. Dr. Amin Arsala, Senior Minister and Acting Minister of Commerce, H.E. Dr. Anwarulhaq Ahadi, Minister of Finance, H.E. Obaidullah Ramin, Minister of Agriculture & Irrigation and H.E. Dr. Sayed Makhdom Raheen, Acting Minister of Youth and Culture will also join the President on his official trip to Beijing .

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 13 June 2006

President Karzai Expresses His Deep Regret at the Death of a British Soldier 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, expressed his deep regret at the death of a British soldier in Helmand province, Afghanistan

In his reaction to the news the President said “This is the work of the enemies of Afghanistan . I am deeply saddened by this incident and I send my heartfelt condolences to the family of the victim.” 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 08 June 2006

President Karzai Calls Zarqawi's Death a Severe Blow for Terrorism 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, called the death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi a severe blow for terrorism and a major success in the war on international terrorism.

In his reaction to the killing of Zarqawi the President said “Zarqawi and his terrorist organization were responsible for the killing of thousands of Muslims in Iraq and in Afghanistan .”

“Zarqawi's death is not the end of terrorism in the world, but a significant step in ridding the world of the menace of terrorism. This success should encourage us all, both in the Muslim world and beyond, to continue and step up our common fight against terrorism.”

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 05 June 2006

President Karzai Meets with EU's Special Representative for Afghanistan

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, met with H.E. Francis Vendrell, the European Union's Special Representative for Afghanistan at the Gulkhana palace this afternoon.

During this meeting, the President emphasized the effective fight against terrorism, the reconstruction of Afghanistan , the strengthening of national institutions and the training and equipping of the National Army and Police.

The President emphasized the significance of the Afghan people's vision of current affairs and said “The international community's assistance to the reconstruction of Afghanistan and to the fight against terrorism should be rendered with greater knowledge and understanding of the situation so that it will reflect the wishes of the people of Afghanistan and achieve concrete results.”

Francis Vendrell also emphasized the significance of bilateral relations and reaffirmed the European Union's commitment to the people of Afghanistan.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 03 June 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Killing of Hajji Mursalin 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the killing of Hajji Mursalin in Manugai district of Kunar province.

According to reports, the enemies of Afghanistan killed Hajji Mursalin while he was praying in a mosque in the province of Kunar on Friday. 

Hajji Mursalin was an influential tribal chief who have made selfless efforts to ensure security and create a friendly atmosphere among the people of Kunar province.

In his reaction to the news the President said “I am deeply disturbed by this act of terror. This is an attack on Islam and no Muslim would kill another Muslim during prayer.”

“This is the work of the enemies of Afghanistan who are fearful of our influential leaders' key role in the reconciliation programme and therefore they want to commit such heinous acts of cowardice.”

The President ordered the relevant authorities to identify the perpetrators of this heinous act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The President expressed his deepest sympathies and condolences to the family of the victim.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release  

Date of Release: 31 May 2006

President Karzai Receives a Telephone Call from President Bush 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, received a telephone call this afternoon from H.E. George W. Bush, President of the United States of America .

During this telephone conversation, President Bush expressed his deep regret at the tragic traffic incident in Kabul which caused casualties and damages.

President Bush also expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and said “The Government and people of the United States of America are the friend of the people of Afghanistan and will always stand by them.”

President Karzai thanked President Bush for his sympathies and the assistance of the Government and people of the United States of America to Afghanistan and emphasized the continuation of a friendly relationship between the people of both countries.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release  

Date of Release: 30 May 2006

President Karzai Receives a Telephone Call from Kofi Annan 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, received a telephone call this evening from H.E. Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations.

During this telephone conversation, Kofi Annan asked the President about the current situation in Afghanistan , especially the situation of Kabul city.  

The President called the situation of Afghanistan as satisfactory and assured Kofi Annan about the situation of Kabul city.

In another telephone conversation today, the President called the Emir of Qatar about his visit to Qatar in the near future.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 30 May 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Killing of Three Afghan Women 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the killing of three Afghan women and their driver who worked for a German-funded NGO, Action Aid.

According to reports, armed men attacked the Action Aid vehicle in Mengajik district of Jowzjan province on Tuesday, killing three women and their driver.  

The President expressed his deep regret at the incident and said “This is an inhuman act by the enemies of Afghanistan , who kill the innocent people working for the welfare of the Afghan people.”

The President ordered the relevant authorities to identify the perpetrators of this act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 29 May 2006

President Karzai Expresses His Deep Regret at the Unfortunate Incident in Kabul  

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, appealed to the people to remain calm and practise restraint after this morning's traffic accident, which killed 5 people.

According to reports, due to technical faults a Coalition Forces vehicle got out of control in the area of Khair Khana and collided with two other Coalition vehicles and then hit other vehicles that were moving on the road, causing casualties and damages.

Upon hearing the news of the incident the President expressed his deep regret at the unfortunate death of 5 Afghans and prayed for the full and speedy recovery of the injured.

The President immediately summoned the security forces and instructed them to investigate the incident and ask the Coalition Forces for explanation.

The President appealed to the people to remain calm and be patient so that security of the city would not be disrupted.

The President assured the people that Government will do its utmost to protect the lives of the people and their property and no disregard to the lives and well-being of our people will be tolerated.   

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release

Date of Release: 27 May 2006 

President Karzai is saddened by the news of the earthquake in Indonesia

Arg. Kabul - H.E Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, was saddened by the news of the earthquake in Indonesian island of Java , which killed at last three thousand people.

According to the reports, a strong earthquake struck the Indonesian island of Java , killing more than 3,000 people and At least 10,000 others are thought to have been injured.

The president expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the Indonesian people and families of the victims.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 27 May 2006

President Karzai Leaves for Iran

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, left for Iran on a two-day state visit this morning.

During this visit, the President will meet with Ayatollah Seyyed Muhammad Ali Khamenei, Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, H.E. Mahmoud Ahmadinezad, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, H.E. Dr. Hadad Adel, Director of the Parliament and H.E. Manochehr Mottaki, Minister of Foreign Affairs to discuss bilateral relations, regional and international issues and other issues of mutual interest.

The Governments of Afghanistan and Iran will sign agreements on the extradition of criminals, the transfer of convicts, the encouragement of investments, the construction of a railway line between Khaf in Iran and Herat in Afghanistan , the strengthening of cultural and judicial cooperation between Afghanistan and Iran , the protection of plants and the exchange of quarantine technologies.

The President will address Iran 's Center for Strategic and Middle East Studies and the Chamber of Commerce on trade and investment opportunities in Afghanistan , the expansion of regional trade ties, Afghanistan 's relations with its neighbors and our neighbors' role as a gateway to South and Central Asia and the Middle East .

The President is accompanied on this trip by H.E. Dr. Rangin Dadfar Spanta, Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Zarrar Ahmad Muqbel, Minister of Interior, H.E. Dr. Zalmay Rasoul, National Security Advisor, H.E. Sarwar Danish, Minister of Justice, H.E. Muhammad Hanif Atmar, Minister of Education, H.E. Muhammad Ismail, Minister of Water and Energy, H.E. Obaidullah Ramin, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, H.E. Sohrab Ali Safari, Minister of Public Works, H.E. Dr. Muhammad Amin Farhang, Acting Minister of Economy, Sayed Makhdom Rahin, Acting Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, H.E. Dr. Enayatullah Qassemi, Acting Minister of Transport, H.E. Dr. Eshaq Naderi, Senior Advisor to the President on Economics, H.E. Nader Ali Mahdawi, Advisor to the President on Religious Affairs, H.E. Muhammad Anwar Jigdalek, Advisor to the President on Youth Affairs and the Governors of Herat, Farah and Nimroz provinces. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan   

Press Release  

Date of Release: 24 May 2006

President Karzai Summons the Commander of the Coalition Forces in Afghanistan for an Explanation about the Kandahar Incident 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, summoned Lieutenant General Karl Eikenberry, Commander of the Coalition Forces in Afghanistan , to his office for an explanation about the incident in the Panjwayi district of Kandahar province this morning.

General Eikenberry gave the President a full account of the incident in the Panjwayi district of Kandahar province and said “Last Sunday, the terrorists had taken up position in a village in Panjwayi district of Kandahar at midnight and began moving out of the village in a queue to carry out terrorist activities.”

“The Coalition Forces knew the terrorists were there, but did not take action to avoid civilian casualties. When the terrorists moved some distance away from the village, the Coalition Forces launched a military operation against them.”

“During the operation, our helicopters opened fire on the terrorists. The terrorists dispersed and fled into a nearby village and broke into people's homes. The Coalition Forces entered the area to control the situation and secure the area. As soon as our forces entered the area, the terrorists began heavy arms fire on them.” 

According to General Eikenberry, unfortunately, during the mopping up operation there were some civilian casualties as well. We provided emergency medical assistance to the injured.

The President expressed his deep regret at the unfortunate death of innocent civilians and said “While the people of Afghanistan stand firmly with the international community in their effort to defeat terrorism, but it must be ensured that civilians are not affected during the operations.”

The President emphasized that civilians' safety is a top priority for the Government of Afghanistan and every effort should be made to ensure their safety in any circumstance. 

The terrorists use people's homes as a shield to hide themselves during anti-terrorist operations as a tactic and on the other hand they endanger civilians' lives for their propaganda.

The President called on the noble and devout people of Afghanistan to resist the terrorists and not to allow them to use their homes as a shield and for other purposes.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 23 May 2006

President Karzai Orders Investigation into the Kandahar Incident 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, who is currently in the United Arab Emirates on a state visit, was notified of the incident in the Panjwayi district of Kandahar province which resulted in the unfortunate death of 16 innocent civilians.

According to reports, the incident occurred when the Taliban were on the run from the Coalition Forces and going into people's homes to take shelter and use them as a shield. Subsequently, the Coalition Forces bombed these houses which resulted in civilians deaths.  

While expressing concern at the Coalition Forces' decision to bomb civilian areas, the President strongly condemned the terrorists' act of cowardice to hide behind civilians and use them as human shields.

On several occasions in the past, the President had called on the Coalition Forces to be highly cautious to avoid civilian casualties during their military operations and not to be swayed by terrorists' tactics who use people's homes as a shelter.

Upon hearing the news of the incident the President ordered an investigation into the incident and asked to summon, upon his return to Kabul from the UAE visit, the Commander of the Coalition Forces in Afghanistan for a full explanation about the incident.

The President called on the noble people of Afghanistan to resist the terrorists and not to allow them to use their homes as a shelter and for other purposes.

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the full and speedy recovery of the injured.

The President instructed the Governor of Kandahar province to provide assistance the families of the victims.

Once again, the President reaffirmed the commitment of the people of Afghanistan to fight terrorism and said the people of Afghanistan will stand with the International Community in their effort to root out terrorism in the world. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan   

Press Release  

Date of Realease: 22 May 2006 

Statement by H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan On the Occasion of His Official Trip to the United Arab Emirates

It is a tremendous pleasure for me to be in the United Arab Emirates .  I am grateful to His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE for his kind invitation and his very generous hospitality. 

I also take this opportunity to thank His Highness the President, leaders and people of the Emirates for their continued support to the people of Afghanistan now and during difficult times in the past. 

We are proud of our relations with the UAE, which are very deeply rooted, and we are pleased that with this visit we took another step in further strengthening our relations. 

I am much encouraged by the warm interest that the UAE leadership has shown in strengthening stability and prosperity in Afghanistan , and in being part of this process.  Over the last four years, Afghanistan has taken significant steps towards peace and prosperity.  Without assistance from the UAE and the rest of the international community, we would not have achieved what we have today. So part of the purpose of my trip today is to thank the UAE for its support to Afghanistan over the past four years.   

Both our countries are located very strategically.  Afghanistan is gradually regaining its historical place as a land-bridge in this region, connecting South Asia Central Asia and the Middle East .  The UAE is today a significant economic power in the region with extremely promising prospects for the future.  Cooperation in various fields between the UAE and Afghanistan will not only benefit the people of the two countries, but will also have a positive impact on the region as a whole. 

Afghanistan today is a land of great promise – it offers tremendous opportunities of business and investment.  Many global businesses have already come to explore and invest in Afghanistan .  I am pleased that the UAE's Etisalaat company is also in Afghanistan now.  Today, I would like to invite other UAE investors to come to Afghanistan and become part of this historical opportunity. 

Once again, I am very pleased to be here.  I am proud to have become part of a long tradition of brotherly relations between our two countries. 

I would like to invite His Highness President Khalifa to visit Afghanistan in the near future.  The Afghan people would be proud to get the opportunity to welcome His Highness and other leaders of the UAE to their country. 

Thank you.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 22 May 2006

President Karzai Leaves for the United Arab Emirates

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, left for the United Arab Emirates on a state visit this morning.

During this visit, the President will meet with H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates , to discuss bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest.

The Governments of Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates will sign agreements on a project to asphalt the Kabul City roads, UAE's assistance to religious schools, expansion of trade ties and the improvement of the situation of Afghans living in the United Arab Emirates .

The President will hold meetings with senior UAE authorities and heads of private companies and banks to discuss the expansion of trade ties between Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates .

The President will meet with representatives of Afghans who are living and working in the United Arab Emirates to listen to their problems.

The President is accompanied on this trip by H.E. Hedayat Amin Arsala, Senior Minister and Acting Minister of Commerce, H.E. Dr. Rangin Dadfar Spanta, Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Dr. Zalmay Rasoul, National Security Advisor, H.E. Yosouf Pashtun, Minister of Urban Development, H.E. Ameerzai Sangeen, Minister of Communication, H.E. Dr. Eshaq Naderi, Senior Advisor to the President on Economics, H.E. Gul Agha Sherzai, Governor of Nangarhar Province, H.E. Noorullah Delaware, Head of the Da Afghanistan Bank, H.E. Fatima Gillani, President of the Afghan Red Crescent Society, four Members of Parliament and twenty leading businessmen and private investors.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 21 May 2006

President Karzai Expresses His Regret at the Death of 4 Afghan National Army Soldiers 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, expressed his deep regret at the unfortunate death of 4 Afghan National Army soldiers.

According to reports, the enemies of Afghanistan attacked an Afghan National Army vehicle in the province of Helmand , killing 4 Afghan National Army soldiers.

In his reaction to the news the President said “The people of Afghanistan will never forget the valour and courage of these soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the sake of a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan .”

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 18 May 2006

President Karzai Returns to Kabul after His Visit to the Province of Kunar  

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, returned to Kabul this afternoon after his visit to the province Kunar today where he inaugurated the newly constructed building of the provincial administration office.

During this visit, the President met with community representatives from all districts of Kunar province which included women, students, tribal elders, Ulemas and Government officials.

While addressing a public gathering the President said “Four years ago, Afghanistan embarked on a journey towards reconstruction and peace. We have made significant progress so far, but still have huge tasks ahead of us and today's generation must make sacrifices so that our future generations will live in peace and prosperity.”

“With the strong will of the people of Afghanistan , we embarked on this journey, and the international community sent their sons to ensure our security. It is not shame that today the international community builds schools, clinics and roads for us.”

“ Afghanistan was reduced to a pile of rubble as a result of conspiracies and interferences in the past decades. The people of Afghanistan sacrificed their lives during the years of Jihad against the Russian invasion and brought the USSR to its knees.”

The President expressed his regret at the unfortunate death of a Canadian soldier in the province of Kandahar and said “It is our duty to protect our freedom and territorial integrity.”

“The enemies of Afghanistan kill our Ulemas, engineers, doctors and teachers to ensure that Afghanistan remains dependent on the assistance of the international community for ever. The enemies of Afghanistan must understand that they will fail in their attempt to destabilize our country.”

“Those countries who support terrorism in Afghanistan must understand that they will inevitably suffer the consequences of their action. Therefore, support for terrorism, the burning of schools and killing of our Ulemas should not be in the interest of countries in the region.”

“Schools are not burnt in other parts of the world and our Ulemas and religious leaders voiced their support for protection of our schools.”

Referring to the double standard by Ulemas of Pakistan the President said “Real Islam says: The Good, One Desires for Himself; He Must Desire That for His Muslim Brother Too .”

“This is not Islam that your sons go to school and your girls study in the UK , but our sons don't have the right to study.”

The President expressed confidence that Afghanistan will make progress in all spheres and the living conditions of the people of Afghanistan will improve despite these subversive activities. Our enemies' efforts will ultimately fail.

The President noted that Afghanistan 's national income per capita increased from US$ 185 in 2002 to US$ 355 in 2006 and I hope this will increase to US$ 500 as mentioned in my election manifesto.

The President expressed his commitment that the Government will construct a power station over the Kunar River .

The President ordered the relevant authorities to asphalt all road networks in the City of Asadabad . The construction of religious schools is a top priority for the Government of Afghanistan and we are committed to provide religious education to our people. If we don't educate our children in religious subjects, it means that we have educated no-one in Afghanistan .

The President inaugurated a police station and a school in the province of Kunar .

The President visited the Fatemia High School and addressed a gathering of students and teachers.

The President exhorted girl students to rid Afghanistan of dependence on other countries and to become doctors so that the people of Afghanistan won't be obliged to go to other countries for treatment.

The Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development has allocated US$ 1.7 million for construction of schools in the province of Kunar .

The President visited the Rapid Reaction Force in the province of Kunar and greeted most of the soldiers. The President ordered the relevant authorities to look into their needs.

While addressing the soldiers the President said “You are doing your brave ancestors' job who have protected our independence over the course of our long history. Your strong determination to fight terrorism assures the people of Afghanistan that their sons will be able to study in peace.”

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 14 May 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Killing of Mawlawi Zainuddin

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the killing of Mawlawi Zainuddin in the Alikhil District of Paktia province.

In his reaction to the news the President said "The enemies of Afghanistan are fearful of our religious leaders' key role in enlightening the people of Afghanistan about the realities on the ground and therefore they want to terrorize them."

The President ordered the relevant authorities to identify the perpetrators of this heinous act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The President expressed his deepest sympathies and condolences to the family of the victim.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 13 May 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Killing of an Elderly Afghan Woman

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the beheading of an elderly Afghan woman in Tappi village, north Wazirestan.

According to reports, armed men beheaded an elderly Afghan refugee woman on charges of spying for the United States of America in Tappi village, north Wazirestan.

In his reaction to the news the President said "The killing of an elderly woman who was living in north Wazirestan is against the historical and cultural values of Muslims. This gruesome act is unforgivable and no-one can justify it. This shameful act is an affront to all Afghans and their historical traditions."

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 13 May 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Killing of Medical Staff

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the killing of a doctor and a UNICEF driver in the province of Herat.

The enemies of Afghanistan attacked a UNICEF vehicle in the outskirts of Herat city on Friday, killing a doctor and a UNICEF driver and wounding another.

In his reaction to the news the President said "The enemies of Afghanistan, at the instruction of foreigners, kill those who are providing healthcare to the poorest communities throughout the country."

"This despicable act of terrorism was aimed at depriving the people of Afghanistan of their right to healthcare and ensuring that Afghanistan remains dependent on other countries' medical assistance for ever."

"This is the work of foreign mercenaries who are trying to hinder reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan. Afghans will continue to rebuild their country despite subversive activities by the terrorists. Afghans never kill medical staff."

The President ordered the relevant authorities to identify the perpetrators of this attack and bring them to justice.

The President expressed his deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 08 May 2006

The First Meeting of the New Cabinet Convenes

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, chaired the first meeting of the new cabinet which was held this morning at the Gulkhana Palace.

The President thanked the Members of Parliament for approving the proposed cabinet ministers regardless of ethnic and factional considerations.

During the meeting the President said "Your performances will be closely scrutinized by the people of Afghanistan, Members of Parliament and the International Community, so I urge you to do your utmost to improve the living conditions of the people of Afghanistan."

"You will only succeed in your job when you perform your responsibilities with diligence and efficiency and improve the living conditions of the people of Afghanistan."

The President urged the cabinet ministers to protect public property and to avoid squandering it.

In order to ensure optimum transparency, the President instructed the cabinet ministers to register all their movable and unmovable property with the Government and formally announce it through the media. This will form the basis of people's judgment about members of the cabinet in the future.

The President instructed the cabinet ministers to consider the principles of meritocracy and employ qualified people based on the merits of full and open competition.

The President urged the cabinet ministers to fully concentrate on the full implementation of the Afghanistan Interim National Development Strategy within the defined timeframe.

The President urged the cabinet ministers to pursue the policy of achieving a balanced development throughout the country and to ensure that all provinces of Afghanistan benefit the Government's development projects.

The President also said "The enemies of Afghanistan have recently been trying to deprive the youth of Afghanistan of their right to education by burning schools and we must do our utmost to protect the schools."

The President also instructed that religious schools must be built in all provinces of Afghanistan thus enabling the youth of Afghanistan to learn religious subjects in their respective provinces.

The President emphasized the enlightening role of media in promoting public awareness, reflecting the realities of Afghanistan and sustaining democracy.

All cabinet ministers were assigned to prepare an itemized list of priorities for their Ministry and present it to the next cabinet meeting.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 06 May 2006

President Karzai Is Saddened by the Death of 10 U.S. Soldiers

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, was saddened by the unfortunate death of 10 US soldiers in a helicopter crash in the province of Kunar on Friday.

According to reports, a US helicopter crashed in Kunar province near a mountaintop landing zone on Friday night, killing all 10 soldiers and crew on board.

In his reaction to the news to the President "The people of Afghanistan will never forget the sacrifices made by the US soldiers for the sake of peace and prosperity of the people of Afghanistan."

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government of the United States of America.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 06 May 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Killing of Two Italian Soldiers

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the terrorist attack on NATO peacekeeping soldiers in the outskirts of Kabul, killing two Italian soldiers and wounding four others.

According to reports, two Italian soldiers on patrol to ensure the security of the people of Afghanistan were killed and four wounded when their vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb in the south of Kabul on Friday.

In his reaction to the news the President said "This cowardly attack was the work of the enemies of Afghanistan who are trying to disrupt the peace process in Afghanistan by spreading chaos and terror in the country."

"This abominable act of cowardice by the enemies of Afghanistan will only engender in the people of Afghanistan the undying hatred of terrorism. The enemies of Afghanistan must understand that their defeat is inevitable."

President Karzai, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government of Italy.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Speech By H.E. Hamid Karzai
President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO)
Baku, Azerbaijan
5 May2006

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate

Your Excellency Mr. Chairman,
Excellencies Heads of states,
Ladies and Gentlemen!

First of all, I would like to thank H.E. President Ilham Alyev and the people of the brotherly nation Azerbaijan for the very warm and generous hospitality extended to us during this summit. Also, I thank the Secretary General of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) and his colleagues for organizing this summit and for their efforts to strengthen cooperation among ECO member states.

Ladies and Gentlemen!
Our world is moving towards greater proximity and cooperation. Globalization is strengthening economic, political and cultural relations among people across different parts of the world. In my opinion, a globalized world will consist of united regions that have geographical, cultural and economic commonalities.

ECO member states are linked by deep historical and cultural ties. We have enjoyed strong links and relations among member countries throughout history; together we have inherited a great culture and civilization from our shared past. Today's political, economic and geopolitical conditions present unprecedented opportunities to further expand our relations and strengthen cooperation between our countries.

The region to which ECO member state belong is among the world's richest strategic energy reserves. This is an opportunity for our people, and our growing young populations, to develop the intact natural reserves available in our region. However, our relations and cooperation in the fields of economy and culture and the interaction between us have not grown to the optimum levels.

We in Afghanistan recognize our obligations towards the region, and our foreign policy with regards to the region reflects our desire for peaceful co-existence and dynamic cooperation consistent with our national interests and the interests of the countries of the region. Building and strengthening relations with countries of the region is among the top priorities of our foreign and economic policies. Afghanistan favors and will spare no efforts to restore its historical role that served as a land-bridge connecting countries of the region. The importance of expanding relations between Afghanistan and the region is already obvious in many areas. We are making efforts to turn Kabul into a vibrant centre of activities across the region. It was as part of these efforts that we hosted the high profile Regional Economic Cooperation Conference in December 2005 that was attended at ministerial level by countries of the region. More recently, two important regional conferences were held in Kabul, one on coordinating regional policies and mechanisms for fighting narcotics and another on common challenges in the area of health. The Afghanistan National Development Strategy (ANDS), which is currently being developed as a blue print for Afghanistan's development over the next five years, establishes regional cooperation as one of Afghanistan's core development strategy priorities.

Afghanistan will continue to play an active role in furthering closer ties and cooperation among countries of the region. Thanks to our achievements over the past four years, Afghanistan has been able to establish constructive partnerships with ECO member states, many of whom have taken an active part in the reconstruction of our country and have benefited from our economic growth. Today, tens of companies from our brotherly countries of Pakistan, Iran and Turkey are undertaking reconstruction projects in Afghanistan. Trade between Afghanistan and its neighbors has risen to more than 2.4 billion dollars a year, compared to less than 50 million dollars a year only a few years ago.

Despite the considerable progress we have made in strengthening regional cooperation, there is still huge potential for further expansion. Considering this huge potential, trade among our countries is still very limited. Most ECO member states trade mostly with trade partners outside the region. For example, while in the European Union, trade among EU member countries constitutes 60% of their total transactions, for SAARC and ECO member countries this figure is less than 10%. We hope that ECO will learn from positive experience of other successful regional organizations such as the European Union and expand trade and business in different areas among its member states. Such a program will require support and commitment of all ECO member countries. Afghanistan is prepared to play an active part achieving this goal.

Ladies and gentlemen!
Our region was once a great center of civilization and one of the axis of the Silk Route. I firmly believe that, in the 21st century, we can revive our region's glorious past and promote it into a centre of peace, security and prosperity. To reach this goal, security needs to be ensured and cooperation needs to be enhanced at the regional level.

We will not have a safe and stable region unless the threats against security and stability of our region and the entire world are properly addressed. In my opinion, the main source of insecurity and obstacle to cooperation between our countries is terrorism. Terrorism threatens regional and global security. Terrorism does not recognize borders and most of the victims of international terrorism are Muslims. Any weakness in our resolve to fight terrorism will bring harmful consequences to all of us. Terrorism is a serious international threat that menaces our region. It is therefore the duty of all of us to jointly fight this common enemy. We have to fight vigorously against terror groups and their sources of finance and training. We have to adopt a firm policy and an unwavering position that will leave no room for compromise in our determination to fight terrorism.

We in Afghanistan have given great sacrifices in the war against terror. We will continue to play our own part in this fight and expect the same from other countries. There should be no doubt that the security of our region is directly tied to the security of Afghanistan. I hope no country assumes that the fire of terrorism will remain the problem of other countries. If we don't fight this menace with resolve, no country will remain safe from its threat. Therefore, we must not allow terrorism to be used as a foreign policy tool.

We want peaceful and prudent solutions to all regional and international issues, and our foreign policy is based on the premise of non-interference in other countries' affairs and respect for each other's sovereignty. Consistent with this policy, we will do our utmost to maintain constructive relations with countries in the region.

On behalf of Afghanistan, I assure you that the Afghan people and their government will stay committed to our partnership with countries of the region and to the principle of regional cooperation – especially with ECO member states.

A democratic and peaceful Afghanistan, with a foreign policy that is based on the principles of friendship and co-existence with all countries of the world, is in the interest of the region. As a partner to ECO member states, Afghanistan remains committed to strengthening cooperation and friendship among our countries.

A vision of security, progress and prosperity in our region is the true reflection of the desires and legitimate aspirations of the peoples of our countries. I fully believe that, through commitment and collective efforts, we will be able to make our common vision a reality.

Thank you

Press Release

Date of Release: 04 May 2006

President Karzai Leaves for Azerbaijan

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, left for Baku, Azerbaijan, this morning to attend the 9th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO).

In his address to the Summit the President will call for greater cooperation among the ECO member states, highlight the necessity of expanding and developing the intact natural resources available in the region and stress the significance of the global fight against terrorism.

During this visit, the President will hold meetings with H.E. Mahmuod Ahmadinezad, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran and H.E Shaukat Aziz, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to discuss issues of bilateral interest.

The President is accompanied on this trip by H.E. Dr. Rangin Dadfar Spanta, Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Dr. Zalmay Rasoul, National Security Advisor, H.E. Muhammad Ismail, Minister of Water and Energy, H.E. Muhammad Amin Farhang, Acting Minister of Economy, H.E. Amirzai Sangeen, Minister of Communications, H.E. Dr. Ishaq Naderi, Senior Advisor to the President on Economics, H.E. Dr. Enayatullah Qasemi, Acting Minister of Transport and H.E. Karim Rahimi, Spokesman to the President.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 03 May 2006

President Karzai Expresses His Regret at the Plane Crash in Armenia

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, expressed his regret at the plane crash in Armenia, killing 113 people on board

According to reports, a plane flying from Yerevan, Armenia, to the southern Russian city of Sochi has crashed into the Black Sea, killing all 113 people on board.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government of Armenia.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 02 May 2006

President Karzai Receives a Phone Call from President Bush

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, received a phone call this afternoon from H.E. George W Bush, President of the United States of America.

President Bush congratulated President Karzai on the approval of his cabinet by the Parliament.

The two Presidents discussed issues of bilateral interest and exchanged views on a wide range of issues including the fight against terrorism.

President Bush assured President Karzai of the United States' continued support in the common fight against terrorism and in the reconstruction of Afghanistan.

President Karzai thanked the people and Government of the United States of America for their unwavering support to the fight against terrorism and to the reconstruction of Afghanistan.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 30 April 2006 

President Karzai Inaugurates the JCMB 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, today inaugurated the Joint Coordination and Monitoring Board (JCMB) for the implementation of the commitments and benchmarks set forth in the Afghanistan Compact. On the occasion of the first meeting of the JCMB, the President hosted a luncheon for all members of the board. 

The President said, "This is a very important step towards the implementation of the Afghanistan Compact."

"I am happy that through the Afghanistan Compact, the International community will continue to work with the Afghan people to continue to build Afghanistan."

The Afghan Government and the international community have agreed to establish a Joint Coordination and Monitoring Board (JCMB) for overall strategic coordination of the implementation of the Afghanistan Compact after the endorsement of the Afghanistan Compact and the interim Afghanistan National Development Strategy (I-ANDS) at the London Conference and the ensuing Security Council Resolution No. 1659.

The JCMB will ensure greater coherence of efforts by the Afghan Government and international community to implement the Compact and provide regular and timely public reports on its execution.

The Board has three specific objectives which are:

1. Provide high-level oversight of progress in the implementation of the Afghanistan Compact.   
2. Provide direction to address significant issues of coordination, implementation, financing for the benchmarks and timelines in the Compact, and any other obstacles and bottlenecks identified either by the government or the international community.
3. Finally, to report on the implementation of the Compact to the President, National Assembly, the UN Secretary General, the donors, and the public

The JCMB will comprise of 28 members, 7 representatives of the government and 21 representatives of the International Community.   

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release  

Date of Release: 30 April 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Killing of Indian Engineer 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the killing of an Indian engineer.

The enemies of Afghanistan abducted an Indian engineer who worked for an Afghan Telecommunications Company Roshan on the Kabul-Kandahar road in Shahjui district of Zabdul on Friday and subsequently killed him.

In his reaction to the news the President said "The killing of the Indian engineer was, without doubt, the work of the enemies of Afghanistan and I condemn it in the strongest terms."

"The enemies of Afghanistan , by burning our schools and health clinics and resorting to acts of terrorism, desire to hinder our reconstruction efforts and to stop Afghanistan becoming powerful and capable of standing on its own feet."

"The terrorists must understand that reconstruction efforts, with the assistance of the international community, will continue in Afghanistan."

President Karzai, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan , expressed his deepest condolences to the family of the victim and to the brotherly people and Government of the Republic of India

The President ordered the authorities at the Ministries of Interior and National Defense to identify the perpetrators of this heinous act of terrorism and bring them to justice. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release  

Date of Release: 25 April 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Terrorist Attack in Egypt

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Dahab, the Egyptian resort town, killing at least 23 people and wounding 62.

In his reaction to the news the President "This attack is a barbaric act of terrorism and I condemn it in the strongest terms. This attack reminds us that the fight against terrorism is a top international priority and the international community must fight this menace with a coordinated and integrated approach."

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan , expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government Egypt.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release

Date of Release: 25 April 2006

President Karzai Expresses His Condolences to the People of Canada  

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, in a letter written to H.E. Steven Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, expressed his deepest sympathies and condolences to the people and Government of Canada.

In the letter the President said "The people of Afghanistan share your pain for we too have lost many of our young people in our common struggle against terrorism."

" Afghanistan is grateful to Canada for the sacrifices offered by your soldiers. These sacrifices will further solidify the bond of friendship between our peoples and strengthen our mutual resolve to eliminate terrorism and to build a world where people live in peace and harmony."

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan 

Press Release  

Date of Release: 22 April 2006

President Karzai Returns to Kabul after His Historic Visit to the Province of Badghis  

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, returned to Kabul this evening after his historic visit to the province Badghis. President Karzai is the first leader of Afghanistan to visit the province of Badghis.

During this visit, the President laid the foundation stone of a new regional hospital, inaugurated a 400KW Diesel Generator and a bridge in Qala-e-Naw and met with the people of Badghis.

The new regional hospital will be built and equipped with 2.5 million Euros in funding from the Government of Spain. This facility's diagnostic and treatment technologies will be state-of-the-art, including CT scanning, general radiology, ultrasound and a well-stocked pharmacy. It will also have major and minor surgery facilities and obstetrical and gynecology care.

The 400KW Diesel Generator was provided and constructed by the Spanish PRT in Qala-e-Naw. This new power generation facility provides 200 households with electricity in Qala-e-Naw.

While addressing a gathering of medical staff and health workers in Qala-e-Naw the President said, "The Government will work hard in the coming years to provide accessible and cost-effective quality medical care to all Afghans in every corner of the country."

"Those who kill our medical staff are the enemies of Afghanistan. Afghans never kill doctors; it is the foreign mercenaries who kill our doctors. It's the duty of the people of Afghanistan to safeguard health centers and medical staff."

The President also visited the girls' High School in Qala-e-Naw, met with teachers and students and discussed the situation of education in Badghis. The students asked the President to assist them with scholarships, teaching materials, computers and electricity.

While speaking to the students the President said, "I have instructed the Minister of Higher Education to provide scholarships to the students of remote provinces."

The people of Badghis asked the President to assist them in the reconstruction of Herat-Badghis road and provide Badghis with safe water.

The President assured them that the Government is working with the US Government on the reconstruction of the Herat-Kabul road.

The President added, "The Minister of Energy will be going to Turkmenistan tomorrow to discuss the transfer of electricity from Turkmenistan to Badghis."

After visiting the Spanish PRT, the President, on behalf o the people of Afghanistan , thanked the people and Government of Spain for their commitment to the reconstruction and security of Afghanistan.

The Spanish Ambassador reiterated his Government's commitment to assist the people of Afghanistan with reconstruction and security.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release

Date of Release: 21 April, 2006 

President Karzai's Message on the Approval of His Ministers by the Lower House of Parliament 

Dear Countrymen, Sisters and Brothers 

Thank the Almighty God for enabling our nation to emerge from another test with success and dignity. The recent days' debate in the parliament clearly indicates the Government Institutions' sense of responsibility.

The MPs' constructive stand on the approval of the proposed ministers, regardless of ethnic and factional backgrounds, indicates that the people of Afghanistan and their Representatives are making great strides in their attempt to strengthen the Government.

It is a great honor for us to have successfully emerged from another test to strengthen the Government. Debate and wrangling over the differences of opinion and the positive competition to find better ways of serving the people are the fundamentals of a democratic and law-abiding society and the Representatives of the people of Afghanistan acted wisely in this direction.

The Representatives of the people of Afghanistan preferred their national interests over all other tendencies.

As the President of Afghanistan, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the noble and Muslim people of Afghanistan and their elected representatives.

We have made other significant achievements in the past and I hope the useful cooperation between the people and Governmental institutions will continue in the future.

God bless Afghanistan!  

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 17 April 2006

President Karzai Orders Investigation into the Kunar Incident

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, ordered the authorities at the Ministries of Interior and National Defense in cooperation with the Coalition Forces to investigate the death of seven Afghan civilians in the province of Kunar .

According to reports, seven Afghan civilians were killed and three wounded in the province of Kunar during a military operation against the enemies of Afghanistan involving Afghan and coalition forces.

The President expressed his regret at this unfortunate incident and instructed the security forces to be highly cautious and avoid civilian casualties during their military operations against the terrorists.

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release

Date of Release: 17 April 2006 

President Karzai Orders Investigation into the Kunar Incident

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, ordered the authorities at the Ministries of Interior and National Defense in cooperation with the Coalition Forces to investigate the death of seven Afghan civilians in the province of Kunar .

According to reports, seven Afghan civilians were killed and three wounded in the province of Kunar during a military operation against the enemies of Afghanistan involving Afghan and coalition forces.

The President expressed his regret at this unfortunate incident and instructed the security forces to be highly cautious and avoid civilian casualties during their military operations against the terrorists.

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 03 April 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Killing of Turkish Engineer

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the killing of a Turkish engineer in the province of Farah .

In his reaction to the news the President said, “This barbaric act of terrorism by the enemies of Afghanistan revealed their hidden agenda to the people of Afghanistan . Afghans will never waver in their determination to rebuild their country. The foreign mercenaries must understand that their defeat is inevitable.”

“The people of Afghanistan thank the brotherly people and Government of the Republic of Turkey for their assistance to the reconstruction of Afghanistan . This assistance is vitally important for a stable and prosperous Afghanistan .”

The President ordered the relevant authorities to identify the perpetrators of this heinous act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan , expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the family of the victim and to the brotherly people and Government of the Republic of Turkey .

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan  

Press Release

Date of Release: 01 April 2006

Afghanistan 's National Income Will Increase to $335 Per Capita for the Year 1385

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, met with Mr. Noorullah Delawari, Head of the “Da Afghanistan Bank”, and received the report on the country's economic growth.

Mr. Delawari informed the President that Afghanistan 's national income per capita in 1384 had reached $293 and it's widely anticipated that it will increase to $335 for the year 1385.

In his election manifesto, the President had committed himself to increase Afghanistan 's national income per capita from $200 to $500 within 5 years. This growth rate indicates a significant step towards a fully-fledged economy. 

During the meeting Mr. Delaware said, “The growth rate of our economy in 1384 was 14 percent and our last year's growth rate was 8 percent.”

Da Afghanistan Bank has had notable success in containing inflationary pressures on the Afghan economy. During the year 1384, Afghanistan 's inflation rate was 10 per cent and food prices had significantly fallen. Only the inflation rate for house rents and oil prices had risen.

The President thanked Mr. Delaware for his work and called the report a good news for the future of Afghanistan 's economy and for the improvement of living conditions. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 01 April 2006 

President Karzai Expresses His Sadness at the Death of Sayed Sadiq Agha, Head of the Takhar Provincial Council

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, expressed his sadness at the death of Sayed Sadiq Agha, Head of the Takhar Provincial Council.

A group of unidentified armed men entered Sayed Sadiq Agha's house in Khwaja Ghar district of Takhar province and martyred him.

In his reaction to the news the President said, “Sayed Sadiq Agha was a patriot and a great Jihadi figure. His unfortunate death is an irreparable loss to the people of Afghanistan . He was a dynamic person and he devoted his entire life to bringing peace and prosperity to the people of Takhar.”

During the President's recent visit to the province of Takhar , the President met with Sayed Sadiq Agha and admired his selfless efforts to establish the rule of law in the province of Takhar and his significant contribution to the security system reform .

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the family of Sayed Sadiq Agha and ordered the authorities at the Ministry of Interior and the NDS to identify the perpetrators of this terrorist attack and bring them to justice. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 01 April 2006 

President Karzai Expresses His Regret at the Death of 57 People in Bahrain

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, expressed his regret at the death of at least 57 people in Bahrain .

A boat capsized off the coast of Bahrain near one of the bridges linking the capital with al-Muharraq Island on Thursday, killing at least 57 people.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan , expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government of Bahrain.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 01 April 2006

President Karzai Expresses His Regret at the Death of 70 People in Iran

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, expressed his regret at the death of 70 of people in Iran .

A series of earthquakes measuring 6 on the Richter scale struck Iran 's western Lorestan province on Friday, killing 70 people and injuring more than 1200.

In his reaction to the news the President said, “The people and Government of Afghanistan share the suffering of the brotherly Muslim people of Iran caused by the earthquake disaster.”

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to the brotherly Muslim people and Government of Iran.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 30 March 2006 

President Karzai Meets with Belgium Foreign Minister

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, met with H.E. Karel De Gucht, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belgium at the Gulkhana palace this evening.

During the meeting, the President and Foreign Minister Gucht discussed bilateral relations, the fight against narcotics, the situation of Afghan refugees in Belgium and the prospect of Afghanistan becoming a member of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).

Foreign Minister Gucht expressed his willingness to help Afghanistan become a member of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).

Foreign Minister Gucht suggested to the President to send a delegation to Belgium to assess the situation of Afghan refugees in Belgium .

Foreign Minister Gucht who holds the rotating presidency of the OSCE proposed a plan to assist Afghanistan with border control to stop drug smuggling.

The Government of Belgium offered to assist Afghanistan with advanced packaging technology so that Afghanistan agricultural products will meet both local and international standards.

On drugs, the President said, “Providing the Afghan farmers with alternative crops is the key to fighting narcotics.”

The President welcomed the prospect of Afghanistan becoming a member of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and thanked Foreign Minister Gucht for his offer of assistance in this regard.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan , thanked the people and Government of Belgium for their generous assistance to the reconstruction of Afghanistan in past four years.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 28 March 2006

President Karzai Returns to Kabul after His Visit to the Province of Zabul  

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, returned to Kabul this evening after his visit to the province of Zabul where he inaugurated the Zabul regional teaching hospital, a mosque and a religious school.  

The regional teaching hospital was built with $2 million in funding from the Red Crescent Society of the United Arab Emirates . This facility can hold up to 130 patients and includes a Level 1 trauma center, the highest possible classification of care. It also has major and minor surgery facilities and care perform pediatric and neo-natal care, and full-service dental care.

The hospital will provide the middle provinces of Afghanistan with a full-service hospital with state-of-the-art equipment. In the future, two more hospitals will be built in the province of Zabul to provide healthcare to the people. The religious school was also built with the assistance from the United Arab Emirates .

During this visit, the President also visited the Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRT) in Qalat to assess the impact of their assistance to the people of Zabul. The PRT is involved in a wide range of activities, including vocational training, carpet weaving and computer training.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan , thanked the people and Government of the United Arab Emirates for their generous assistance to the reconstruction of Afghanistan .

The President met with soldiers from the 205 th National Army support battalion, enquired about their problems and instructed the battalion commander to look into their needs.

While speaking to a group of medical staff, Government officials and the local people, the President called on the people of Zabul to educate their children in modern sciences.

The President addressed a public gathering in Zabul and said, “Upon my arrival in Zabul, I saw young girls and boys who were studying and receiving vocational training, this small achievement of your sons and daughters pleased my heart.”

“Today, the people of Afghanistan are dependent on the assistance of other countries as we have kept our children away from education. Learning will help us get rid of our dependence on other countries. Today, our need for foreign engineers and technical assistance in general is due to our neglect towards education in the past.”

“Our children, who are being trained against our national interests outside our soil, have in fact remained away from education and education is the way for a prosperous life in Afghanistan . Today, I met with a five-year old Afghan child who was very good in working with a computer; I hope the children of Zabul will also reach the level of this child.”

“Schools are not burnt anywhere in the world, but we have this happening in Afghanistan . Everywhere I go in Afghanistan , people ask me to build schools, but the enemies of Afghanistan burn our schools. They are afraid of schools being built in Afghanistan because schools bring about engineers, doctors, teachers and diplomats.”

“I urge the Taliban to stop destroying their country at the instruction of foreigners. The foreigners use them, the Taliban, as slaves and encourage them to destroy their country. I urge the Taliban to come and join the peace and reconciliation process and help rebuild their country. The enemies of Afghanistan must understand that their plans to destroy Afghanistan will never succeed.”

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 22 March 2006

President Karzai Presents His New Cabinet to the Parliament

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, through a Presidential Decree based on chapter 11 article 64 and provisions 71 and 72 and the second chapter of article 161 of the constitution of Afghanistan has appointed the new cabinet. Also, based on chapter 12 article 64 and provisions 117 & 118 and second chapter of article 161 of the constitution of Afghanistan has appointed members of the Supreme Court of Afghanistan and presented both lists to the parliament.  

The list of the Cabinet:

1. H.E. Hedayat Amin Arsala – Senior Minister
2. H.E. Dr. Rangeen Dadfar Spanta – Minister of Foreign Affairs
3. H.E. Stir General Abdul Raheem Wardak – Minister of Defense
4. H.E. Eng. Zarar Ahmad Muqbal – Minister of Interior
5. H.E. Dr. Anwar Ul-Huq Ahadi – Minister of Finance
6. H.E. Mohammad Sarwar Danesh – Minister of Justice
7. H.E. Mohammad Hanif Atmar – Minister of Education
8. H.E. Dr. Mohammad Azam Dadfar – Minister of Higher Education
9. H.E. Ismael Khan – Minister of Water and Energy
10. H.E. Professor Neyamatullah Shahrani – Minister Hajj
11. H.E. Dr. Suhrab ali Safari – Minister of Public Works
12. H.E. Dr. Sayed Makhdoum Raheem – Minister Youth and Culture
13. H.E. Dr. Sayed Mohammad Ameen Fatemi – Minister of Health
14. H.E. Obaidullah Ramin – Minister of Agriculture & Irrigation
15. H.E. Dr. Mir Mohammad Amin Farhang – Minister of Economy
16. H.E. Eng. Abrahim Adel – Minister of Mines
17. H.E. Ameerzai Sangeen – Minister of Communication
18. H.E. Dr. Mohammad Haidar Reza – Minister of Commerce
19. H.E. Ehsan Zia – Minister of Rehabilitation and Rural Development
20. H.E. Noor Mohammad Qarqin – Minister of Disabled and Martyrs
21. H.E. Gul Hussein Ahmadi – Minister of Transport
22. H.E. Dr. Suraya Raheem Sabarnag – Minister of Women Affairs
23. H.E. Ustad Akbar Akbar – Minister of Refugees
24. H.E. Mohammad Kareem Brahawi – Minister of Border Affairs
25. H.E. Eng. Mohammad Yosouf Pashtun – Minister of Urban Development
26. H.E. Eng. Habibullah Qaderi – Minister of Counter Narcotics

Members of the Supreme Court:

1. Sheikh Al Hadees Fazel Hadi Shinwari – Chief Justice and Head of the Supreme court
2. Mohammad Omar Mohmand – Member of the Supreme Court
3. Mawlawi Mohammad Qasem – Member of the Supreme Court
4. Mohammad Qasem Hashemzai – Member of the Supreme Court
5. Mohammad Hussein Roostayi – Member of the Supreme Court
6. Shah Ali Azqar Shahrestani – Member of the Supreme Court
7. Bahaudin Baha – Member of the Supreme Court
8. Abdul Rasheed Rashed – Member of the Supreme Court
9. Mohammad Aleem Nasemi – Member of the Supreme Court

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 22 March 2006

President Karzai Leaves for Turkey

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, left for Turkey this afternoon to attend an international symposium on “Global Terrorism and International Cooperation” in Ankara to which he has been invited as a keynote speaker.

The President's address to the symposium will focus on threat the world faces from terrorism, what countries can do to defeat this menace and Afghanistan 's experiences in fighting terrorism.

The President is accompanied on this trip by H.E. Dr. Rangin Dadfar Spanta, Senior Advisor to the President on International Affairs, General Abdul Rashid Dustom, Chief of Staff to the Commander of the Armed Forces, H.E. Amrullah Saleh, National Director of Security and H.E. Jawed Ludin, Chief of Staff to the President.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 18 March 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Killing of Macedonians and Afghan Policemen

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the killing of four nationals of Macedonia and nine Afghan policemen.

In his reaction to the death of the Afghan policemen the President said, “They were the real sons of Afghanistan who lost their lives for the sake of peace and freedom in their country.”

“The instructors and executors of this barbaric act of terrorism who receive instructions from foreign sources wish to spread terror across Afghanistan . The terrorists must know that their defeat is inevitable as their acts of barbarity reveal their real agenda to the Afghan people.”

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan , expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the people and Government of Macedonia and to the families of the Afghan policemen.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 12 March 2006

President Karzai Is Saddened by the Death of Innocent Civilians

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, was saddened by the death of two by passers who were killed this morning during a terrorist attack on former president Sebghatullah Mujaddedi.

The enemies of Afghanistan killed a girl who was going to school and an elderly man who was on his way to work.

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and ordered the relevant Government authorities to assist the victims' families.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Transcript of H.E. President Karzai's Press Conference Regarding Today's Terrorist Attack on Former President Sebghatullah Mujaddedi

Date of Release: 12 March 2006

Arg, Kabul:

President Karzai: We heard this morning that His Excellency Hazrat Sebghatullah Mujaddedi, the former president of Afghanistan, a great spiritual leader of Afghanistan, a leader of our resistance against the former Soviet Union in Afghanistan, a leader of our resistance against other invasions and interferences in this country was attacked by suicide bombers this morning.

We, the Afghan people are extremely happy and we thank God, many, many times that President Mujaddedi has not been harmed. He is alive and with us, this attack on President Mujaddedi is an attack on Afghans' independence, attack on President Mujaddedi is an attack against the Afghan voice, he was one of the strongest voices of this country, the attack on President Mojaddedi is attack against peace in Afghanistan.

We are glad that this attack has failed and we are happy that he is still with us. God has been kind to all of us and I am sure that professor Mujaddedi will continue to serve the Afghan nation, our women, our children as ever before and in the strongest terms. I congratulate the Afghan people that this attack has failed and our leader is good and alive and safe with us.

(Question, National Public Radio)

Mr. Mujaddedi is an integral part of the reconciliation process in Afghanistan, in a few days he will be signing an action plan to get the ball going in transitional justice here in Afghanistan and peace and reconciliation is ethical part of that, the symbolic impact of today's event, how will that affect the reconciliation process.

(Answer)

This will strengthen our resolve in seeking stronger peace in Afghanistan and trying to bring all Afghan people together and to have justice in this country. This will strengthen our resolve, this will make us go stronger and with better speed.

(Question, National Public Radio)

You are not concern that there is an increase in certain attacks in south and the east and attack today is in fact a sign that the country is not ready for this process?

(Answer)

These are not related, those are different, these are attacks by terrorism against Afghanistan, against Afghan elders, Afghan personalities, those who are seeking peace and stability in Afghanistan. These are two different matters.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 11 March 2006

President Karzai Is Saddened by the Mine Blast in Pakistan

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, was saddened by the news of at least 26 people being killed after their vehicle hit a landmine in the province of Balochistan, Pakistan.

In his reaction to the news the President said, “Landmines never make peace and can not distinguish between soldiers and civilians, between tanks and tractors and constitute a malignant threat to whole societies.”

“The people of Afghanistan have suffered greatly from landmines for many years and understand the pain and suffering that landmines cause. Afghanistan has signed the Mine Ban Treaty and will remain committed to prohibit the use of landmines. I urge countries around the world to unite in banning landmines.”

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and the brotherly people and Government of Pakistan.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 08 March 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Terrorist Attack in India

Arg, Kabul –H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Varanasi, India.

In his reaction to the news the President said, “This terrorist act is shocking and despicable. It is aimed at killing innocent civilians and I condemn it in the strongest terms.”

The Afghan people send their sympathies to the people of India. Afghans have suffered at the hands of terrorists for many years and understand the pain and suffering that terrorism causes. My thoughts are with the families of the victims and those injured.

The President, on behalf of the Afghan people, expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the people and Government of the Republic of India.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 4 March 2006

President Karzai Initiates this Year's Polio Vaccination Campaign

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, today initiated this year's polio vaccination campaign in the presidential compound by dripping a drop of vitamin A and two drops of polio vaccine into the mouth of Afghan children.

In a three-day campaign starting on 05 th of March 2006 more than 40 thousand vaccinators, health workers and volunteers will go house-to-house across the country to immunize more than 7.2 million children under the age of five.

Also, more than 6.4 children from 6-month to five years of age will receive vitamin A across the country. The health teams from the Ministry of Health will work in close partnership with the UN agencies to eradicate polio and ensure that no Afghan child slips through the net.

The President called on Afghan families to use this opportunity and vaccinate their children to ensure a polio-free Afghanistan.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Arg, Presidential Palace – Kabul, Afghanistan

1st March 2006

Transcript of President Karzai and President Bush's Press Conference

President Karzai: Such a wonderful moment for us in Afghanistan today to have a great friend, our great supporter, a man that helped us liberate, a man that helped us rebuild, a man that helped us move towards the future, President Bush today with us in Afghanistan. 

I conveyed after Mr. Bush's arrival to him that when the Afghan people come to know that you are here today but when they will see you on the Television that we did not provide the kind of hospitality that Afghans want to provide you, I will be in serious trouble.

Mr. President welcome to Afghanistan, I will have to do a lot of explaining the Afghan people.

Mr. President welcome to Afghanistan, we owe a great, great deal in this country's rebuilding, peace, democracy, the steps toward the future, to your support, to your leadership, to the American people, and to the way you have given your hand to the Afghan people. 

I am not going to go into the details of all that you have done for us is from the defeat of terrorism, to peace in Afghanistan, to democracy, to reconstruction, to the success of the whole processes, thank you very much.  Mr. President and welcome to Afghanistan.

President Bush:

Thank you Mr. President, thank you for having me. Laura and I are honored to be here.  It is a such a thrill to come to a country which is dedicating itself to the dignity of every person that lives here.  First of all, I want to thank you for the fantastic lunch we just had.

I did get a taste of Afghan hospitality, it is good.  I appreciate you introducing me to many of the leaders of your government; I am impressed by their dedication to making sure the experience that you are going through, experience of growing a democracy that honors and respects all as successful.

One of the messages I want to say to the People of Afghanistan, it is our country's pleasure and honor to be involved with the future of this country. We like stories of young girls going to schools for the first time so that they can realize their potential. 

We appreciate a free press, we are enthralled when we see an entrepreneual class grow up and when people are able to work and realize their dreams.  We understand the importance of having a well-trained military dedicated to the sovereignty of the country and to the peace of the people.  We are impressed by the progress that your country is making, Mr. President, a lot of it has to do with your leadership. 

Today, I normally had a good long visit with my friend, the President, but we had good visits with a lot of folks that made this government work.  From here I am going to cut a ribbon at our new embassy. The embassy should be a clear statement to the people of Afghanistan that we are dedicated to helping and I am going to go out to the base and thank some of our troops who are here to protect our country and the same time help the people of Afghanistan protect themselves. 

One of the things I told, Mr. President, told members of your team and your cabinet and the government is that people all over the world are watching your experience in Afghanistan. I hope the people of Afghanistan understand that democracy takes hold, you are inspiring others and that inspiration will cause others to demand their freedom and as the world becomes more free, the world becomes more peaceful. So I come as a friend, an ally, and a person like you dedicated to peace.

Thank You.

Q&A

Q: President Bush, there was a time you talked about getting Osama Bin Laden dead or alive. Why is he still on the loose 5 years later? Are you still confident that you will get him?

A: I am confident that he will be brought to justice. What is happening is that you have got US forces on the hunt for not only Bin Laden but anybody who plots and plans with Bin Laden, there are Afghan forces on the hunt for not only Bin Laden but those who plot and plan with him, you have got Pakistani forces on the hunt, a part of my message to President Musharraf is that it is important that we bring these people to justice, he understands that and after all he tried to kill him four times.  So we have got a common alliance, all aimed at routing out people who are evil doers, people who have hijacked a great religion and kill innocent people in the name of that religion.

We are making progress in dismantling Al Qaeda slowly but surely. We are bringing the people to justice and the world is better for it as a result of our steady progress. 

Q: (Reuters) Mr. President, let me welcome you to Afghanistan first, my first question is regarding the worsening situation in Afghanistan, the Afghan Government says that violence emanates from Pakistan; will you be discussing in any way the issue of violence in Afghanistan with Pakistani authorities?

My second question is regarding Iran's nuclear program, Iran says that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes while you seem to doubt that there seems to be some sort of standoff, do you think that standoff will affect the security of the region and you think there is a way out of this standoff?

A: (President Bush) to the first question yes, I will absolutely bring up the cross border infiltrations with President Musharraf.  These infiltrations are causing harm to friends, allies and cause harm to US troops and that will be a topic of conversation.  It is an ongoing topic of conversation.

Secondly, Iran must not have a nuclear weapon, the most destabilizing thing that can happen in this region and in the world is for Iran to have a, develop a nuclear weapon so the world is speaking with one voice to the Iranians that it is okay for you to have a civilian power, nuclear power opportunities, but you shall not have the means, the knowledge to develop a nuclear weapon.  So we join with Russia as part of a diplomatic effort to solve this problem. 

Russia will provide enriched uranium to a civilian nuclear power plant and will collect the uranium after it has been used in the plant.  I repeat to you the most destabilizing thing that can happen is for Iran to have a nuclear weapon and we will work with our friends and allies to convince them not to.

Q: It has been four years since the presence of the international forces in Afghanistan; however, the security situation is increasingly deteriorating, what will be your long term policy towards Afghanistan?

How will the US policy be affected if Osama and Mullah Omar are captured?

A: (President Bush) It is not a matter of if they are captured and brought to justice it is when they are brought to justice.  The US is here at the request of the Afghan government elected by the people.  We signed an agreement in the oval office in Washington DC with the duly elected President of your country, President Karzai.

It is an agreement that sets out a strategic relationship; it is an important relationship for our country.  It is an important relationship for Afghanistan, it is important for the people of Afghanistan to recognize that we are here by mutual consent we want to be here.  We want to be here to help Afghanistan grow its democracy and defeat those who can't stand the thought of freedom.  President has talked to me a lot about this issue, assures me that the government is sincere in its request that the US and Coalition help Afghanistan grow its democracy. 

Our commitment is firm, our desire is to see this country flourish and set a great example not only in the neighborhood but around the world.  I hope the people of Afghanistan understand the people of America who have a great regard for human life and human dignity.  We care about the plight of people.

When we saw the devastation in Pakistan we were quick to respond with help because we care about people.  When we heard that 73,000 people lost their lives and 2.5 million people were displaced from their homes, it broke our hearts.

When we see HIV Aids ravishing an entire continent of Africa, we care.  I repeat what I said before we like stories and expect stories of young girls going to schools in Afghanistan.  It means a lot to the American people.  It means a lot for the people to realize that there is an entrepreneurial class that is beginning to grow.  We believe in hope which is exact opposite of the ideology of the Bin Laden's of the world and the Taliban.

In our country, you can worship freely; you are equally Americans, if you are Christian, Muslim, Hindu or Jew.  You are equally American if you don't believe in Almighty. 

Under the Taliban and Osama Bin Laden there is no religious freedom.  You have no chance to express yourself in the public square without being punished, there is no capacity that realizes your full potential, so we are committed to universal values, we believe everybody desires to be free and we know that history has taught us that free societies yield peace.  We want peace for our children; we want peace for the Afghan children as well.

Press Release

Date of Release: 28 February 2006

President Karzai Meets with H.E. Carlos M. Gutierrez, Secretary of the United States Department of Commerce

Arg, Kabul –H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, met with H.E. Carlos M. Gutierrez, Secretary of the United States Department of Commerce at the Gulkhana palace this afternoon.

During this meeting, the President and Secretary Gutierrez discussed the strong economic and commercial relationship between Afghanistan and the United States of America.

The President emphasized Afghanistan's desire to export its dry fruits, marble, carpets and rugs to the United States of America and said, “30 years ago, Afghanistan was a major exporter of raisin to the world and we will work hard to regain that status. We need more assistance in getting our products to the world standards.”

“The World Bank report on doing business 2006 ranked Afghanistan as the top in the world with respect to business start up regulation which augurs well for the future our economy and encourages us to build on this success and create an environment that's more conducive to foreign investors.”

Secretary Gutierrez reaffirmed the long-term commitment of the United States of America to work with the people of Afghanistan to create economic opportunities and develop a private sector that will drive Afghanistan's economic growth.

Secretary Gutierrez said, “My visit highlights the United States' continued support to help Afghanistan create a business-friendly environment that will create jobs and move economic development forward. A strong economy will help Afghanistan build a society based on peace, hope and prosperity.”

Afghanistan and the United States will hold a Conference in the future on trade and development which aims to enhance relationship between the Afghan businesses and the United States businesses to work on getting Afghan products more suitable to the standards of international products.

The President also discussed the prospect of Afghanistan becoming a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to open better opportunities for the people of Afghanistan.”

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 23 February 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Attack on the al-Askari Shrine in Iraq

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the terrorist attack on the al-Askari shrine in Samarra, Iraq.

According to reports, the al-Askari shrine in Samarra was damaged and the golden dome was destroyed when two terrorists posing as police blew themselves up next to it.

In his reaction to the news the President said, “ Terrorists are trying to drive a wedge between the Sunni and Shiite communities who have lived together in harmony throughout the history of Islam. The attack on the al-Askari shrine was a deliberate attempt by terrorists to damage the unity of Muslims in the world. This barbaric act of terrorism is against Islam and humanity and I condemn it in the strongest terms.”

The President appealed to the Sunni and Shiite communities of Iraq for restraint and urged them to unite in thwarting their enemies' efforts to divide them.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his deep sympathies with the people of Iraq and prayed for a peaceful and prosperous Iraq.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 20 February 2006

President Karzai Visits the Province of Takhar; Inaugurates the Taloqan-Keshm Road

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, visited the province of Takhar today and inaugurated the Taloqan-Keshm road this afternoon.

During the inauguration ceremony the President said, “Three years ago, I had made a commitment to the people of Badakhshan to rebuild the Taloqan-Keshm road and today I am very pleased to be here and to inaugurate this long-awaited road. I hope the Taloqan-Keshm road will extend towards Tajikistan and Chinese borders to increase trade in the region.”

The 38-kilometer Taloqan-Keshm road with $25 million in funding from the World Bank will be completed by August 2007 and it will enable farmers to reach markets faster and increase people's access to employment, schools and health care.

Prior to the inauguration ceremony, the President met with community representatives from the provinces of Takhar, Badakhshan, Kunduz and Baghlan which included women, tribal elders, clerics and government officials. The community representatives thanked the President for visiting the province of Takhar, and spoke about the current priorities in their provinces.

The President briefed the community representatives on the country's latest situation and enquired about performances in reconstruction of these four provinces by Government offices in the past four years. The community representatives acknowledged the reconstruction projects in their respective provinces and asked the Government to concentrate on construction of schools and bridges and provision of electricity.

The President also praised the Provincial Reconstruction Teams under NATO/ISAF as a significant contributor to stability and reconstruction in Northern provinces of Afghanistan. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 18 February 2006

President Karzai Expresses Is Saddened by the Death of a Large Number of People in Philippines 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened by the unfortunate death of a large number of people in Philippines.   

According to reports, at least 1,800 people died due to a landslide caused by heavy rains in Philippines.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his deep sympathies and condolences to the people and Government of Philippines.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 14 February 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Killing of 4 US Soldiers

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned the killing of 4 US soldiers in the province of Uruzgan.

In his reaction to the news the President said, “Terrorist attacks have been taking place in Afghanistan for sometime now, which have claimed the lives of international soldiers and Afghans alike. We must fight this menace together until it is removed from the region and the world.”

The President expressed his deep sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims.

For further information, please contact:

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press release

Date of Release: 09 February, 2006

President Karzai welcomes US cancellation of Afghanistan debts

Arg, Kabul - H.E Hamid Karzai, president of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan hailed the decision by the US of canceling its 108 million dollars that Afghanistan owed to the United States of America.

President Karzai appreciating the decision by the US government added: the forgiveness of the debt that Afghanistan owed to the US is a positive measure which will surely help in the reconstruction and development process in our country.

The president of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan hoped other countries will also follow the US decision to cancel their debts that Afghanistan owes to them.

Press Release

Date of Release: 07 February 2006

President Karzai Receives a Phone Call from the Prime Minister of Norway

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, received a phone call from H.E. Jens Stoltenberg, Prime Minister of Norway this afternoon.

The President and the Prime Minister discussed the blasphemous cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), which was published in some European newspapers.

Prime Minister Stoltenberg expressed his regret at this unfortunate incident and his concern at today's demonstrations in Faryab province of Afghanistan which involved an attack on Norwegian soldiers operating under the Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRT).

The President strongly condemned the blasphemous cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad and expressed his regret at the unfortunate incident in the province of Faryab and said, “The people of Afghanistan realize that European soldiers serving in Afghanistan have nothing to do with the publishing of the blasphemous cartoons and it is the responsibility of the people of Afghanistan to ensure the security of the international soldiers who are helping the people of Afghanistan with stability and reconstruction.”

For further information, please contact:

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 07 February 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Terrorist Attack in Kandahar Province

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned today's terrorist attack in Kandahar province, which killed 13 people and wounded a dozen people.

In his reaction to the news the President said, “The Taliban have been resorting to killing our Ulemas, teachers, students and innocent Afghan civilians since their defeat and their brazen admission that they carried out today's terrorist attack in Kandahar unveils their hidden agendas to the people of Afghanistan.”

“The enemies of Afghanistan are trying to hinder Afghanistan's progress towards peace and democracy by disrupting the peace process in our country. Today's heinous act of terrorism is against the values of Islam and humanity.”

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the full recovery of the injured.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 02 February 2006

President Karzai Returns to Kabul After Attending the London Conference

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, returned to Kabul this morning after his state visit to Switzerland and Denmark and attending a two-day international conference on Afghanistan in London.

The opening session of the conference was chaired by H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, H.E. Tony Blair, Prime Minister of Britain and H.E. Kofi Annan, United Nations Secretary General, and attended by representatives from more than 60 countries and international organizations.

Speaking at the conference the President said, “Four years on from the Bonn conference, the people of Afghanistan have made great strides towards peace, stability and democracy. We owe our successes to the resilience and unfailing determination of the people of Afghanistan as well as the generous support of the international community.”

“The threat of narcotics must be fought through law enforcement and through alternative economic opportunities. This fight will prove arduous and remitting. In the past year we reduced the land under poppy cultivation by 21%, mainly through voluntary self-restraint, and we are determined to take further steps to completely eliminate this menace.”

“To improve our economy, we will focus on strengthening our country's infrastructure with particular focus on energy – especially electricity, road networks and water. We will create an enabling environment for business to grow and for our farmers to produce and market.”

“To support the implementation of our national development strategy, we are pleased that the international community is joining us in the Afghanistan Compact today. Through the Compact we, the people of Afghanistan, renew our pledge to build on the successes of the Bonn process and lead our nation's economic, social and political development.”

“A stable, peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan is not a blessing for the Afghans alone; it is for all of us. On behalf of the people of Afghanistan, I pledge today that we will be a dependable asset to the security of the region and of the world.”

“With this Compact we, the people of Afghanistan, move forward to the next stage our rebuilding. Over the next five years we will increase our own expertise and capacity today we were assured of the international community's continued support and we hope they stay committed to us until we fully stand on our own two feet.”

During the conference, Foreign Secretary Straw said, “To any who, over the past four years, may have doubted international resolve to stay the course in Afghanistan today shows clearly that there has been no going back. The United Kingdom and its partners welcome Afghanistan's return to the international community and the Afghanistan Compact is recognition of our joint determination to see that the next stage of nation building succeeds.”

The UN Secretary General Kofi Annan said, “Bonn was an agreement to build institutions of governance in Afghanistan. The Afghanistan Compact is about making sure that these institutions work. Much hard work lies ahead, but Afghanistan has made remarkable progress and the people of Afghanistan deserve to know that the international community continues to stand by them.”

Altogether over $10.5 billion was pledged by the international community for rebuilding Afghanistan.

Prior to the London conference, the President visited Switzerland and Denmark to hold talks with the Dutch and Danish authorities on bilateral issues. The President also attended the 36 th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

The President congratulates the people of Afghanistan on the successes of the London conference on Afghanistan and the international community pledging more than $10.5 billion for rebuilding Afghanistan. The President also thanks the people and Government of the United Kingdom for hosting the London conference for the people of Afghanistan.

For further information, please contact:

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 2 February 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Re-production of a Blasphemous Cartoon and Welcomes the Sacking of the Editor by the Newspaper 

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, condemns in the strongest terms an action by a French newspaper which printed a cartoon featuring the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) on its front page. 

In his reaction to the news, the President said, “Any insult to the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) is an insult to more than 1 billion Muslims and an act like this must never be allowed to be repeated.”

It was reported that Jacques Lefranc, the editor of the newspaper was dismissed by the owner of France Soir and the President welcomed this action. 

A similar cartoon had previously appeared in a Danish newspaper which was also condemned by the President during his visit to Denmark last weak. 

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 26 January 2006

President Karzai Is Saddened by the Death of Khan Abdul Wali Khan

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened by the death of Khan Abdul Wali Khan and expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to his family, members of the National Awami Party and the people of the region. .

In his reaction to the news the President said, “Khan Abdul Wali Khan was a great political figure who formed the National Awami Party and the Awami National Party and demonstrated political courage and effectiveness in his leadership.”

“Khan Abdul Wali Khan was imprisoned several times and suffered many hardships during his political struggle and remained steadfast in his determination to achieve his goals. His unsurpassable achievements will remain vivid in the minds of the people of the region and h istory will remember him as a man of will and intelligence. The President called his unfortunate death an irreparable loss to all political circles of the region.” 

The President, who is currently attending the 36 th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, called Khan Abdul Wali Khan's son, Asfandyar Wali Khan, and head of the Awami National Party this afternoon and expressed his heartfelt condolences to his family.

For further information, please contact:

• Khaleeq Ahmad, Deputy Spokesman on International Affairs
  Tel.:  00 93 70 286 853

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 25 January 2006

President Karzai Leaves on Trip to Switzerland, Denmark and Britain

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, left for Switzerland this morning to attend the 36 th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum which will be held in Davos on 25 January 2006.

During this visit, the President will hold meetings with H.E. Angela Merkel, Chancellor of Germany, H.E. Hector J. Ruiz, Chairman of the Board and CEO AMD (Advanced Micro Devices), H.E. Supatchai, Secretary General of the United Nations Conference on Development and Trade, H.E. Carlos Guitierrez, the United States Secretary of Commerce, H.E. Pervez Musharaf, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and H.E. Tayeb Erdogan, Prime Minister of Turkey.

The President will leave Switzerland for Denmark on 28 January 2006 to hold meetings with HRH Mary Elizabeth Donaldson, Crown Princess of Denmark and H.E. Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Prime Minister of Denmark.

The President will leave Denmark for Britain on 29 January 2006 to attend a two-day international conference on Afghanistan which will be held on 31 st January 2006 in London.

The President is accompanied on this trip by H.E. Dr. Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Dr. Zalmai Rasoul, National Security Advisor, H.E. Dr. Anwarulhaq Ahadi, Minister of Finance, Dr. Rangin Dadfar Spanta, Senior Advisor to the President on International Affairs, H.E. Jawid Ludin, Chief of Staff to the President.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 23 January 2006

Heads of Lower and Upper Houses and Eight Members of the Afghan Parliament Attends the London Conference

Arg, Kabul –Heads of the lower and upper houses and eight members of the Afghan parliament as part of the Afghan delegation will attend a two-day international conference on Afghanistan in London on 31 st January 2006.

The MPs include:

1. Hazrat Sebghatullah Mujaddadi, Head of Upper House of the Parliament
2. Yonus Qanuni, Head of Lower House of Parliament
3. Dr. Burhanullah Shinwari, Member of Parliament
4. Rida Azimi, Member of Parliament
5. Dr. Kabir Ranjbar, Member of Parliament
6. Said Mustafa Kazimi, Member of Parliament
7. Abdul Satar Darzzabi, Member of Parliament
8. Fazel Azim Mujaddadi, Member of Parliament
9. Safia Seddiqi, Member of Parliament
10. Ruqqia Nayel, Member of Parliament

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 22 January 2006

President Karzai Is Saddened by the Death of Ibrahim Rugova, President of Kosovo

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened by the death of Ibrahim Rugova, President of Kosovo and, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to his family and the people and Government of Kosovo.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 21 January 2006

The Cabinet Approves the Interim National Development Strategy

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, chaired an extraordinary cabinet meeting this morning.

During the meeting, the Afghanistan Compact, which will be signed in the London Conference by the Government of Afghanistan and the international community, and Afghanistan National Development Strategy were discussed in detail. The Cabinet, with some minor changes, unanimously approved the Interim National Development Strategy.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 17 January 2006

President Karzai Holds Video Conferencing with the Province of Kandahar

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, held a meeting with the governor of Kandahar, tribal elders, women and members of Kandahar's provincial council through video conferencing to assess the security situation on the ground. The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims of yesterday's terrorist attack in Spinboldak, Kandahar province.

During this video conferencing, the Ulemas, tribal elders, women and members of the provincial council talked about the recent terrorist attacks and said “These attacks are the work of terrorists infiltrating Afghanistan from the other side of the border and they are not Afghans. They are foreigners and we all know that their training camps and hideouts are outside Afghanistan.”

The Ulemas, tribal elders and members of the provincial council expressed their preparedness to defend their areas and also unanimously requested the establishment of religious schools inside Afghanistan so that Afghans won't be in need of studying on the other side of the border and it will reduce the risk of Afghans being misused by the enemies of Afghanistan.

They also requested that border tribes be reinforced by the government of Afghanistan to prevent the terrorists from infiltrating into the country.

The President expressed his regret at the recent incidents and said, “This is not and won't be the first attack in Afghanistan, it's nearly 30 years that the people of Afghanistan have been facing terrorist attacks.”

“The only reason for these attacks is that Afghanistan is a proud and sovereign country. We do not accept to be others' slaves and will never surrender into slavery. Over the course of our long history, the people of Afghanistan have protected their independence with numerous sacrifices and at the cost of shedding their blood. Afghans will make more sacrifices for protection of their country, if need be.”

The President added “The people of Chaman were also killed in yesterday's terrorist attack besides the people of Spinboldak. In addition, the people of Bajawur lost their lives in the fight against terrorism. It is a harsh reality that during the past 30 years Afghanistan and tribal areas namely Chaman, Bajawur and Wazirestan have been facing continued conspiracies and destructions.”

“Terrorism, Al Qaeda and extremism, with the use of force and conspiracy, have taken haven in tribal areas and in Afghanistan. The people of Afghanistan and tribal people are killed in the fight against terrorism.”

“These attacks in Afghanistan are a clear indication of the terrorists' cowardice, weakness and defeat. Tying a bomb on a motorcycle and detonating it during the Eid festival demonstrates the terrorists' cowardice or killing Mullah Muhammad Khaksar Akhund who was a former member of the Taliban movement and worked for the prosperity of Afghanistan and contributing to the rebuilding of Afghanistan, shows their cowardice.”

 “The enemies of Afghanistan can not tolerate the ongoing development of Afghanistan, our country's independence and its dignified presence at the international level.”

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 17 January 2006

President Karzai Condemns Yesterday's Terrorist Attack in Kandahar

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemned yesterday's cowardly terrorist attack in the Spinboldak district of Kandahar province, which killed 20 innocent people, including people from Chaman district of Pakistan, and wounded many more.

The terrorists carried out yesterday's attack near a crowd of people who were watching a wrestling match at a public gathering for Eid festivities in Spinboldak.

President Karzai is deeply saddened by the death of the innocent people of Spinboldak of Afghanistan and Chaman of Pakistan and said, “The people of Afghanistan and tribal areas of Pakistan have suffered tremendous loss of lives and sustained heavy damages due to the presence of the terrorist networks in their areas. The people of Afghanistan and Pakistan are suffering at the hands of the terrorists and in the fight against terrorism. The recent fatalities in Bajawur Agency are a clear indication of this fact.”

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and stressed the need for a joint fight by regional governments to eliminate the terrorists' presence and sanctuaries in the region and secure the lives of the people of Afghanistan and the tribal areas of Pakistan.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 16 January 2006

President Karzai Calls President Mahmoud Ahmadinezad

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, spoke on the phone this morning to H.E. Mahmoud Ahmadinezad, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, regarding the delay in his trip to Iran.

During this telephone conversation, the President conveyed the best wishes of the people of Afghanistan to the people of Iran and his hopes for the trip to be rescheduled in the near future.

President Ahmadinezad also conveyed the best wishes of the people of Iran to the people of Afghanistan and wished the people of Afghanistan greater successes.

The governments of both countries are working together to reschedule President Karzai's trip to Iran on a mutually convenient date.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release:   15-January-06

President Karzai Condemns Killing of Mullah Mohammad Khaksar

Arg, Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E Hamid Karzai, president of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan strongly condemns the killing of Mullah Mohammad Khaksar.

Mullah Khaksar, who worked as Deputy Minister of Interior during Taliban regime was shot to death yesterday in Kandahar province.

President Karzai in his reaction to the incident said: “This action of the ousted Taliban's seniors well explains their weakness, fear and is a clear indication of their hostility with the peace process. Their purpose of disturbing the peace process is not only to shed the blood of innocent people but even their own former supporters, which is both against the sacred religion of Islam as well as humanity.”

The President urged the relevant authorities to investigate the crime and to bring the culprits to justice as soon as possible. The President also presents his heartfelt condolences to the family and relatives of Mullah Mohammad Khaksar

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 15 January 2006

President Karzai Is Saddened by the Death of Sheikh Jaber, the Emir of Kuwait

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened by the death of Sheikh Jaber, the Emir of Kuwait and, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the people and Government of Kuwait and Kuwait's royal family.

The President mentioned about Sheikh Jaber's assistance to the people of Afghanistan during the years of Jihad and called him a friend of the people of Afghanistan.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 05 January 2006

President Karzai Is Saddened by the Death of Sheikh Maktoum, the Rule of Dubai

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened by the death of Sheikh Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai.

In his reaction to the news the President said, “I am deeply saddened by the death of Sheikh Maktoum and pray for his soul. I praise his strong personality and admire his invaluable services to the people of the United Arab Emirates.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan, expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to Sheikh Maktoum's family and the people of the United Arab Emirates.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 05 January 2006

President Karzai Condemns the Terrorist Attack in Uruzgan Province

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, who is currently in Turkey on a state visit, strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Uruzgan province.

The enemies of peace carried out today's attack in Tarin Kowt, the provincial capital of Uruzgan, killing at least ten Afghans, including two children, and wounding many more.

This attack occurred in the crowded livestock bazaar in Tarin Kowt at a time when people were buying their Eid needs which was aimed at killing the innocent people of Afghanistan.

In his reaction to the news the President said, “This attack is taking place at a time when we are holding talks with the Turkish authorities on deepening bilateral relations between Afghanistan and the Republic of Turkey. This evil act of terrorism is against Islam and humanity and can only arouse the Afghan people's indignation.”

The President expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and ordered the relevant authorities to identify the perpetrators of this attack and bring them to justice.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Date of Release: 04 January 2006

President Karzai Leaves for Turkey

Arg, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, left for Turkey on a state visit this afternoon.

During this visit, the President will hold meetings with H.E. Ahmet Necdet Sezer, President of the Republic of Turkey, H.E. Tayyip Erdogan, Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey, H.E. Abdullah Gul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey and H.E. Hilmi Ozkok, Commander of the Turkish Armed Forces.

In meetings with Turkish authorities, the President will discuss bilateral relations, Turkey's further assistance to rebuilding efforts in Afghanistan and Turkey's continued contribution to the security of Afghanistan.

The President will also hold meetings with Turkish entrepreneurs and representatives of the Turkish Business Council and construction companies to encourage their greater participation in construction activities in Afghanistan, including building roads.

The President will also address students at Baskent University in Ankara on the positive developments and changes in Afghanistan.

The President is accompanied on this trip by H.E. Dr. Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Zalmai Rasol, National Security Advisor, H.E. Dr. Anwarul Haq Ahadi, Minister of Finance, H.E. Dr. Sayed Makhdom Raheen, Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, H.E. Dr. Muhammad Amin Fatemi, Minister of Health, H.E. Noor Muhammad Qarqin, Minister of Education, H.E. Dr. Masouda Jalal, Minister of Women's Affairs, H.E. Dr. Sayed Amir Shah Hassanyar, Minister Higher Education and H.E. Dr. Rangin Dadfar Spanta, Senior Advisor to the President on International Affairs, H.E. Jawed Ludin, Chief of Staff to the President.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

22 August 2005

The Government of Afghanistan Asks the Government of Pakistan to Postpone Closure of the Afghan Refugee Camps in Korm Agency and Bajawar Agency

Today, the Government of Afghanistan sincerely thanks the Government and people of Pakistan for their wholehearted support to the Afghan refugees as wells as their kind hospitality during the past 25 years.

The Government of Afghanistan stresses that every decision about the fate of Afghan refugees is legally bound to be taken in accordance with the international law and the provisions of a tripartite agreement reached between the Governments of Afghanistan and Pakistan and the UNHCR.

The Government of Afghanistan also stresses that enough time be given to the Afghan refugees so that they can settle their transactions with the local population with complete peace of mind.

The Government of Afghanistan is committed to the implementation the Tripartite Agreement which ensures the voluntary, gradual and dignified repatriation of Afghan refugees to their country.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

17 August 2005

President Karzai Expresses Regret at the Plane Crash in Venezuela

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, expressed his regret at the tragic death of 160 French and Columbian nationals in a plane crash in Venezuela yesterday.

In this tragic incident, 152 French and 8 Colombian nationals have lost their lives.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan and the Government, expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the peoples of France and Columbia.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

16 August 2005

President Karzai Is Deeply Saddened By the Death of Seventeen Spanish Soldiers

Arg, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened by the tragic death of seventeen Spanish soldiers in a helicopter crash caused by a sandstorm in Herat.

The President said the people of Afghanistan will remember the services of these brave soldiers who have made sacrifices so that the people of Afghanistan could live in peace and rebuild their war-ravaged country.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan and the Government, expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Spain.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

14 August 2005

President Karzai Expresses Regret at the Cyprus Plane Crash

Arg, Presidential Compound, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, expressed his regret at the death of 121 people on board a Cyprus plane which crashed into a mountainside in suburban Athens on Sunday, August 14, 2005.

The President, on behalf of the people of Afghanistan and the Government, expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Greece and Cyprus.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

4 August 2005

Detainee Transfers to Afghanistan

The following is a Joint Statement by the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the United States:

 During their May 2005 meetings, President Bush and President Karzai expressed a strong desire to return Afghan detainees to Afghanistan as part of the U.S.-Afghanistan Strategic Partnership.

Today, in beginning to implement the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership, Afghanistan and the United States reached an understanding that will allow for the gradual transfer of Afghan detainees to the exclusive custody and control of the Afghan Government.

The Government of Afghanistan will accept responsibility for the returning Afghan citizens and will work to ensure that they do not pose a continuing threat to Afghanistan, the Coalition, or the international community as a whole.  The United States is prepared to assist Afghanistan in capacity building, including infrastructure, and to provide training, as appropriate.     

For further information, please contact:

• Karim Rahimi – Spokesman to the President, Tel. 00 93 79 33 77 55
• Lou Fintor – US Embassy in Kabul Spokesman, Tel 009370234553

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

Tuesday, 2 August 2005

President Karzai Leaves for Saudi Arabia

Arg, Presidential Compound, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, left for Saudi Arabia this morning to attend the funeral ceremony of King Fahd of Saudi Arabia.                                             

The President was accompanied by former Presidents Prof. Ustad Burhanuddin Rabbani and Prof. Sebghatullah Mujaddadi, Dr Zalmay Rasul, National Security Advisor, and Jihadi leader Ayatullah Sheikh Mohammad Asif Mohseni.

Dr. Abdullah, Foreign Minister of Afghanistan and Jihadi leader Pir Sayed Ahmad Gilani will also join the President in Riyadh.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

26 July 2005

President Karzai Signs the Counter Narcotics Tribunal Decree

Arg, Presidential Compound, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, signed the Decree to establish the Counter Narcotics Tribunal yesterday, 25 July 2005.

The Counter Narcotics Tribunal Decree was proposed by HE Chief Justice Shinwari of the Supreme Court of Afghanistan. The Decree establishes special tribunals to try cases related to narcotics. It supports Article 7 of the Constitution, which bans the cultivation, production and trafficking of narcotics. The Decree came into force just after the President signed it.

On signing the Decree the President said: “this demonstrates the Government’s crucial proactive commitment to the fight against narcotics. It is a further step towards greater judicial reform”.

“This is a strong message to those involved in narcotics that the Government will crack down on the traffickers and all those that shame the name of the Afghan people” the President added.

Released by the office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan 

Press Release

26 June 2005

President Karzai is Saddened By the Blast in Takhar Province

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened by the news of an explosion in Takhar province yesterday that left five Afghans killed, 2 ISAF soldiers missing and four others, including 3 Afghans and one ISAF soldier wounded.

The explosion occurred near an airfield in Rustaq district of Takhar province when a sizable store of ammunition was being segregated and prepared for future destruction.

In his reaction to the news, the president said: “I am deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident.  The ISAF and the Afghan workers lost their lives in the service of Afghanistan, and the Afghan people remain grateful to them for their sacrifice.  I present my sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wish prompt recovery to the injured.”  

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

25 June 2005

President Karzai Congratulates Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for Being Elected as the New Iranian President  

Presidential Palace, Kabul –H.E Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, congratulates Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for being elected as the President of Iran today.

In a special congratulatory message sent to Mr. Ahmadinejad the President said, “ The Afghan people join me today in congratulating you and the brotherly nation of Iran on electing you as their new President.”

“Iran and Afghanistan are two countries with deep cultural and historical affinity. The People of Afghanistan will never forget the assistance and hospitality provided to the Afghan refugees from the people of Iran during the resistance of the Afghan people against the Soviet invasion. With your election we hope that the relationship of Afghanistan and Iran will flourish further.” the President added.

The President wished Mr. Ahmadinejad success.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

9 June 2005   

President Karzai Pleased by News of Clementina Cantoni’s Release

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is extremely pleased to hear that Clementina Cantoni, the Kabul-based Italian employee of CARE International, has been released from custody of her hostage-takers this evening.  The President is happy that Ms Cantoni, who was taken hostage by a gang of criminals in Kabul on 17 May 2005 and remained in custody since then, will return to her family, friends and colleagues in good health. 

The President praises the hard work of the Ministry of the Interior and other security forces, the valuable efforts of some ulema and tribal leaders, and the expression of solidarity by women groups in Afghanistan, which together resulted in resolution of the hostage case.  The President recognises that the outpouring of support for Clementina among Afghans, Italians and people in the rest of the world has played a role in securing her freedom. 

The President once again condemns the act of hostage-taking which is criminal and unacceptable under any circumstances.  The President believes that hostage-taking is a cowardly act which runs counter to the religious and cultural values of the Afghan people who have expressed their condemnation. 

The President looks forward to meeting Clementina Cantoni in person.  

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

7 June 2005

President Karzai Meets with Deputy Secretary General of NATO, Discuss Security for the Parliamentary Elections

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, met this afternoon at the Presidential Palace with H.E. Alessandro Minuto-Rizzo, the Deputy Secretary General of NATO.

In the meeting, H.E. Alessandro Minuto-Rizzo explained NATO’s expansion to the west of Afghanistan and NATO’s commitment to contribute to the security of the Parliamentary elections. 

The President welcomed H.E. Alessandro Minuto-Rizzo to Afghanistan and thanked him for NATO’s contribution in bringing peace and stability to Afghanistan.  The President said that the cooperation from NATO, the Coalition Forces and our neighbours was crucial for the Presidential election last October and he hoped that similar collaboration will ensure that the Parliamentary elections take place in a secure environment. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan 

Press Release

1 June 2005

President Karzai Strongly Condemns the Suicide Attack in Kandahar City

H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan strongly condemned the suicide attack at the mourning ceremony of Late Mawlawi Abdullah Fayaz and called it an act of cowardice by the enemies of Islam and the enemies of the peace of Afghan people.

At least 20 mourners were martyred and many others were injured by a suicide bomber at a gathering to mourn the death Mawlawi Abdullah Fayaz at Abdul Rab Akhund Mosque in Kandahar City this morning.

The President called the attack on a mosque an act of non-muslim and defeated terrorists. H.E. added: Mosque is a Home of God and place of worship; those attacking it are unbelievers and despicable enemies of Islam and Afghanistan.

President Karzai said: the Muslim people of Afghanistan recognize the culprits of this un-Islamic act and know that it was carried out by the enemies of Afghanistan.

“Afghanistan is passing through a sensitive period in its history, and with the parliamentary elections getting closer, the enemies attempt to sabotage the process.” said the President.

Mr. President called on the people to be vigilant to not allow foreigners to conspire against their national security.

Mr. President has established a commission consisting of representatives of the Ministry of Interior Affairs and National Defense, and National Security Directorate to carefully investigate this terrorist act and take all necessary and appropriate actions.

He offers his heartfelt condolences to the relatives and friends of the martyred and prays for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

29 May 2005     

President Karzai Is Disturbed by and Strongly Condemns Killing of Mullah Abdul Fayaz

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemns the killing this afternoon of Mullah Abdul Fayaz, Head of the Ulemas Council of Kandahar, who was shot in his office in Kandahar.

In his reaction to the news, the President said: "I am deeply disturbed by this crime, which is an attack on Islam and on the Ulemas. I strongly condemn the killing of Mullah Abdul Fayaz, who was a person devoted to Islam and at the service of the Afghan people".

The President urged the relevant authorities to investigate the crime and to bring the culprits to justice as soon as possible. The President also presents his heartfelt condolences to the family of Mullah Abdul Fayaz.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

29 May 2005

President Karzai Is Deeply Saddened By Explosions in Market in Central Indonesia

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is deeply saddened by two explosions yesterday in a market in the Sulawesi island town of Tentena, Central Indonesia, killing 22 people and injuring 40 others.

The President condemns this inhumane act of terror, which caused the deaths of innocent people. On behalf of the Afghan people, the President presents his condolences to the family of the victims.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

16 May, 2005  

Statement Attributable to the Spokesman to the President of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Regarding the Newsweek’s Acknowledgement of Mistake in Reporting

Presidential Palace, Kabul - The Office of the Spokesperson to the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses displeasure at hearing the acknowledgement by the Newsweek Magazine of factual error in their reporting of the alleged desecration of the Holy Quran by US soldiers in the Guantanamo Bay prison.

The publication of the alleged desecration of the Holy Quran in the May 9 th, 2005 edition of Newsweek resulted in strong public reaction in Afghanistan which provided an opportunity to the enemies of Afghanistan to orchestrate violence and destruction of public property in several Afghan provinces.

Jawed Ludin, the Spokesman said:

“Newsweek’s statement today is welcome because it clarifies an issue of significant importance and sensitivity for Muslims across the world.  However, we express in the strongest terms our disapproval of Newsweek’s approach to reporting which allowed them to run the story without proper examination beforehand.  We would like to emphasize the need for a professional and sensitive approach to journalism.”

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

5 May 2005

President Karzai Sends Condolences for Death of Nine Afghan National Army Soldiers in Kandahar Province

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is deeply saddened by the news of nine Afghan National Army soldiers killed in an ambush in Spin Ghar Area of Shah Wali Kot, Kandahar Province.

In his reaction to the news, the President said: "I am deeply saddened by this incident, and I send my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims".

The President asked the relevant authorities to investigate the details of the incident and to bring the culprits to justice as soon as possible. The President appreciates the contributions of the Afghan National Army in providing security to the people of Afghanistan and deeply regrets such incidents targeting people dedicated to their country.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

03 May 2005

President Karzai Is Deeply Saddened by Blast in Baghlan Province

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is deeply saddened by the news of an ammunition blast yesterday in the village of Pajga, Baghlan Province, killing at least 28 people and injuring about 70 others.

In his reaction to the news, the President said: "I am deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident, and I present my sincere condolences to the families of the victims. I also wish a prompt recovery to the injured".

At the President's instruction, the authorities are investigating the causes of the blast.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

1 May 2005

President Karzai Concerned About Civilian Casualties In Operations by Coalition Forces

Presidential Palace, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened to hear the recent news of civilian casualties from some provinces of Afghanistan, and expresses concern about the occurrence in recent weeks of civilian deaths as a result of counter-terrorist operations of the international coalition forces in Afghanistan. 

The Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan reaffirms once again its rock-solid commitment to the war against terrorism, and will continue to work with the international coalition against terrorism in pursuing and defeating terrorist forces in Afghanistan. 

However, the Government is also aware of its responsibility to the Afghan people to ensure their safety and protection.  The Government, therefore, advises extreme caution to be exercised by all forces while carrying out counter-terrorist operations in civilian areas. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

30 April 2005

President Karzai Is Deeply Saddened by Deaths in Herat

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is deeply saddened by a violent incident during the Education festival yesterday in Herat, which caused the death of 2 women and injured 7 people.

In his reaction to the news, the President said: "I am deeply saddened by this incident which took place during a happy gathering of our youth and their parents. I present my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and I wish a quick recovery to the injured".

The President has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident to determine the facts and bring the culprits to severe punishment. A team of the Ministry of the Interior and Defense, the National Director for Security and the prosecutor general's office has been sent to Herat.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

26 April 2005

President Karzai Is Deeply Saddened by the News of a Train Crash in Japan

Presidential Palace, Kabul:  H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is deeply saddened by the news of a train crash in Osaka city of Japan, which caused the death of over 70 and injured more than 400 people.

In his reaction to the news, the President said: "I am deeply saddened to hear this news. On behalf of the Afghan people, I present my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Japan."

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

24 April 2005

President Karzai Holds Bilateral Meetings During Trip to Jakarta, Indonesia

Presidential Palace, Kabul:  H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, held bilateral meetings during his trip to Jakarta, Indonesia, with H.E. Junichiro Koizumi, Prime Minister of Japan, H.E. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, H.E. Mohammad Reza Arif, Vice- President of Iran, H.E. Pervez Musharraf,
President of Pakistan, H.E. Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations and Mr.Lakhdar Brahimi, Special Advisor to the United Nations Secretary-General.

In his meeting with H.E. Junichiro Koizumi, the President discussed Japan's assistance to the reconstruction of Afghanistan, especially through the D.D.R. process.

In his meeting with H.E. Manmohan Singh, the President discussed the continuation of Indian cooperation with Afghanistan, especially India's assistance to the reconstruction of power lines from Pul-i-Khumri to Kabul, and to the transport sector in Afghanistan.

In his meeting with H.E. Mohammad Reza Arif, President Karzai
discussed bilateral relations and trade.

In his meeting with H.E. Pervez Musharraf, President Karzai discussed the fight against terrorism, the extension of the gas pipeline from Turkmenistan to Pakistan through Afghanistan, bilateral trade and transit relations.

In his meetings with UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and Mr.Lakhdar Brahimi, the President discussed parliamentary elections, security situation, the role of the United Nations in Afghanistan and in the
world, the current situation in Afghanistan and the role of women in Afghan society.

The President took the opportunity in his meetings to thank the international community for their assistance in the reconstruction of Afghanistan.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

21 April 2005

President Karzai To Address Asian-African Summit 2005 In Jakarta

Presidential Palace, Kabul:  H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, departed this morning for Indonesia, where he will address the 2005 Asian-African Summit and lead the Afghan delegation participating in the associated meetings.

The 2005 Asian-African Summit will be held on 22 and 23 April, and will bring together leaders from more than 100 countries across the globe.  Afghanistan was among the original 29 countries which participated in the Asian-African Conference in 1955, and the
President will also travel to Bandung, Indonesia, to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of the Conference on 24 April.

The Asian-African Summit aims to promote friendship, cooperation, peace and understanding among its member nations.  The Summit this year is being co-chaired by Indonesian President Yudhoyono and South African President Mbeki.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

19 April 2005 

President Karzai Congratulates the New Pope

Presidential Palace, Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, congratulates His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI on his election today as the new Pope.

In his reaction to the news of the Pope's election, the President said:  "I congratulate Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger for being elected as Pope Benedict XVI today.  On behalf of the Afghan people, I wish His Holiness Benedict XVI every success as he assumes his new responsibility."

The President extends congratulations also to the Vatican and to the Conclave of Cardinals who voted to elect the pontiff.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

19 April 2005

President Karzai Meets With General McColl, Prime Minister Blair's
Special Envoy

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, met this evening at the Presidential Palace with General John McColl, the recently appointed Special Envoy of British Prime Minister Tony Blair to Afghanistan.

In the meeting, General McColl explained that Prime Minister Blair had appointed him as a Special Envoy to Afghanistan to better coordinate the contributions by the United Kingdom to Afghanistan in various fields, ensuring that U.K.'s contribution is spent in a positive and effective manner. The Special Envoy will also work to promote better and long-term relations between Afghanistan and the United Kingdom.

In his role as Prime Minister Blair's Special Envoy to Afghanistan, General McColl will visit Afghanistan frequently and spend time visiting provinces and discussing mutually important issues. General McColl said that the United Kingdom will also use its role within the European Union and as Chair of the G8 countries to advocate for more
and better international assistance to Afghanistan.

The President and General McColl also discussed counter-narcotics and the progress that Afghanistan has made in the war against terrorism.

The President welcomed General McColl as the Special Envoy of British Prime Minister Blair to Afghanistan and hoped that his appointment will further strengthen the U.K.-Afghanistan relations and U.K.'s excellent contribution towards Afghanistan's reconstruction.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

7 April 2005

President Karzai Leaves For Italy, Will Attend Funeral Ceremony Of H.H. Pope John Paul II

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, left today, Thursday 07 April, for Rome, Italy, where he will attend the funeral ceremony of His Holiness Pope John Paul II in Vatican on Friday.

President Karzai will be one of the many Muslims leaders around the world attending the funeral ceremony of the late Pontiff.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

5 April 2005

President Karzai Meets With Foreign Minister of Japan, Calls For Further Trade Cooperation

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, met today with H.E. Nobutaka Machimura, Foreign Minister of Japan.

During the meeting, the President thanked Japan for its support to the reconstruction of Afghanistan, especially to the D.D.R. process, which he believed was a corner-stone for Afghanistan's development.

The assistance of Japan to the reconstruction of the infrastructure, including roads, and rural development areas were discussed.

Discussing trade and investment, the President emphasised the good tradition of trade between Afghanistan and Japan, and hoped further trade cooperation between Afghanistan and Japan could develop.

The President also discussed Afghanistan's interest to play a more active role in promoting regional economic cooperation, and called for Japan's support, both bilaterally as well as at the G8 level.

H.E. Nobutaka Machimura assured the President that Japan supported Afghanistan's efforts to be economically independent and promised continued development assistance to Afghanistan and further cooperation in terms of trade.

The President invited the Prime Minister of Japan to visit Afghanistan, stressing that the Afghan people would be very happy to welcome him in their country.

Japan contributed 900 Million Dollars to the reconstruction of Afghanistan in the last 3 years.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

3 April 2005

President Karzai Announces a Taskforce To Study Policy Regarding NGOs

Presidential Palace, Kabul:  H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, called a meeting this morning with ambassadors and representatives from the United Nations and donor countries based in Kabul, to consult them about the NGO Law that was considered by the Cabinet of the Government of Afghanistan on 28 March
2005.

Earlier, representatives of donor countries had raised concerns regarding article 8 of the legislation which provides that NGOs shall not bid for Afghan Government-sponsored project contracts.  This provision in the NGO Law reflected the serious concern within the Government and the Afghan society at large, that some NGOs were responsible for widespread corruption and misuse of public funds, which must be stopped.

At this morning's meeting, the President reiterated his commitment to fight corruption and the misuse of public money both within and outside the Government.  The President praised the good work of those NGOs who worked in Afghanistan, consistent with their true humanitarian and developmental objectives, to serve the Afghan people. However, the President also voiced his strong concerns that the so-called NGOs were responsible for squandering the precious resources that Afghanistan received in aid from the international community. "We had a responsibility", the President said, "towards the Afghan people, as well as the tax-payers in the donor countries, to stop NGOs
that are corrupt, wasteful and unaccountable."

The President and the gathered representatives of the donor countries agreed to establish a joint task-force to examine the issue and submit recommendations in no more than a month.  The President nominated Mr Mohammad Amin Farhang, the Minister of Economy, Mr Haneef Atmar, the Minister of Rural Rehabilitation and Development, and Mr Umer Daudzai, the Chief of Staff of the President's Office, to represent the Afghan Government in the task-force.  The donor countries will also nominate their representatives to the task-force.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

3 April 2005

President Karzai Is Deeply Saddened By the Death of His Holiness Pope John Paul II

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is deeply saddened by the death of His Holiness Pope John Paul II.

In his reaction to the news, the President said: "I am deeply saddened to hear this news. I and the Afghan people value the tremendous contribution that His Holiness Pope John Paul II has made to peace, tolerance and inter-faith understanding across the world. We remember that during the years of Afghanistan's occupation by the Soviet Union, the Pope raised his voice of support to the Afghan people. He also urged the Afghan people to build peace during the dark years of factional conflict and interference in Afghanistan".

"The Pope was a religious leader for the Catholics, but he was also a man with concern for all human beings, working for harmony among religions and cultures. Today, I am joined by the Afghan people in presenting our heartfelt condolences to the Catholics around the world".

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

1 April 2005

President Karzai Welcomes Creation of the Afghanistan National Coordination Front as the Opposition to the Government of Afghanistan

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, welcomes the creation of the Afghanistan National Coordination Front as the Opposition to the Front, led by Mr Mohammad Yonus Qanooni, was announced yesterday afternoon at a press conference held in the Intercontinental Hotel, Kabul.

The President appreciates this initiative which aims to establish an Opposition to the Government, within the democratic political framework in Afghanistan, and consides it as an important step towards strengthening democracy and the rule of law in Afghanistan. The President believes that, in the same way that a parliament and the principle of people's representation in the State are vital elements of a democratic system, an Opposition committed to reform and the true application of law is also a crucial part of such a system.

As is common in other democracies in the world, the Government and the Opposition can have differences in views and policies, but are united in defending and promoting national interests which are above political interests.

The President wishes Mr.Yonus Qanooni and his colleagues at the Afghanistan National Coordination Front all the success, and hopes that the Front will play its historical role in strengthening and deepening democracy in Afghanistan by adopting policies that are positive, constructive and leading to reform.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

29 March 2005

President Karzai Is Saddened by News of Earthquake Striking Indonesia's West Coast

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened by the news of an earthquake yesterday striking Indonesia's west coast and killing hundreds of people. First reports show that the epicenter of the earthquake was on the Sumatra island of Nias.

"I am saddened to hear that this region was struck by an earthquake, especially after the tragedy of last December's Tsunami. I pray for the well-being of the Indonesian people and I hope that such tragedies will not occur again in the future. On behalf of the Afghan people, I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to
the people of Indonesia", the President said in his reaction to the news.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

28 March 2005   

President Karzai Meets with President Basescu of Romania, Thanks Romania for Contribution to the Security of Afghanistan

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, met this afternoon with H.E. Traian Basescu, President of Romania.

Romania’s contribution to the War on Terror and security in Afghanistan, and other areas of cooperation between Afghanistan and Romania were discussed during the meeting. On behalf of the Afghan people, the President thanked Romania for its contribution to the security of Afghanistan.

H.E. Traian Basescu announced that an extra amount of 400 Romanian soldiers will be sent to Afghanistan to help securing the country for the Parliamentary Elections. Romania will also open an Embassy in Kabul soon.

Romanian has kindly 72 soldiers in the ISAF forces and 420 soldiers in the Coalition Forces.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

27 March 2005   

President Karzai Welcomes the Result of the Survey on Poppy Cultivation; Calls for Assistance towards Alternative Livelihoods

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, welcomes the result of the Rapid Assessment Survey of poppy cultivation and eradication carried out jointly by United Nations Office for Drugs & Crime and the Ministry of Counter Narcotics.

The survey, carried out in 225 villages and 198 districts of 34 provinces reveals a falling trend in opium poppy cultivation in the majority of the 34 provinces, mainly because farmers refrained from planting.  The main reasons reported by villagers for refraining from cultivating poppy were: respect for the government’s ban on opium poppy cultivation as well as fear of eradication by the Government.  In his reaction to the report the President said: “I’m extremely pleased to note that the people of Afghanistan have responded positively to the call for Jihad against the evil of narcotics.  This indicates that the Afghan people are taking steps towards ridding their country from this menace.  I hope that the international community will also fulfil its responsibility by providing assistance towards Alternative Livelihoods so that the scourge of narcotics will be defeated forever, and Afghanistan will become a drug free country.”  

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

23 March 2005

President Karzai Returns from Pakistan

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, and his accompanying delegation returned this afternoon from his official visit to Islamabad, Pakistan.

During his visit, the President held talks with H.E. Pervez Musharraf, the President, H.E. Shaukat Aziz, the Prime Minister, H.E. Khurshid Kasuri, the Foreign Minister of Pakistan, and attended the official ceremony marking 23rd of March, Pakistan Day. On behalf of the Afghan people, the President thanked Pakistan for its friendship and support over the past three years and for being a second home for millions of Afghans over many years. The President particularly highlighted Pakistan's cooperation in facilitating the participation of Afghan refugees in last October's Presidential Elections, and in carrying out effective campaign against terrorism.

Issues of bilateral interest that were discussed during the visit include the following:

- Bilateral trade
- Afghanistan's provision of transit facility to Pakistani goods exported to Central Asia
- Pakistan's provision of greater access to sea ports for Afghanistan's imports and exports
- The Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan pipeline
- Cooperation in the war against terrorism

On behalf of the Afghan Government, the ministers of Foreign Affairs
and Transport signed the following agreements with the relevant
ministries from the Pakistani Government:

- Protocol on Regular Consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan and Pakistan
- Agreement on Cultural Cooperation
- Agreement on Media Cooperation
- Agreement on Tourism
- Agreement on Bus Service between Peshawar and Jalalabad
- Agreement on Bus Service between Quetta and Kandahar

The Presidents of Afghanistan and Pakistan concurred that the two should work together for even stronger and more comprehensive partnership between the two countries. Such partnership will be in the interest of defeating terrorism and violence, as well as providing
prosperity to the people of the region.

The President of Afghanistan is extremely pleased to have been able to visit Pakistan and is certain that this visit will further strengthen the deep and fraternal relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The President is grateful to the Pakistani Government for extending a very warm welcome during the visit.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

20 March, 2005  

President Karzai Is Saddened by Deaths Caused by Blast in Pakistan

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is deeply saddened by the news of a blast in a Shiite shrine in the village of Fatehpur, Baluchistan, Pakistan, resulting in the death of at least 27 people and many
injuries.

"Perpetrating violence in a holy place is a crime against Islam", the President said in his reaction to the news.  "On behalf of the Afghan people, I would like to present my sincere condolences to the families of the victims and I wish a prompt recovery to the injured".

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

20 March, 2005  

President Karzai Wishes Iran and Tajikistan Happy New Year 

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, extends his best wishes to the people of Iran and Tajikistan, as they celebrate the New Year Day (Solar Year 1384) tomorrow.

In his congratulatory letters to President Said Mohammad Khatami and President Imamali Rahmanov, the President emphasized on the significance of the historical festival of Nawroz (New Year), and prayed for success and prosperity of the people of the two brotherly countries.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

17 March 2005

President Karzai Condemns Terrorist Attack in Kandahar

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened by and condemns in the strongest terms the bomb blast in Kandahar this morning, killing at least 5 people and injuring at least 30 people.

"This terrorist act is the work of the enemies of Afghanistan, who want to destabilize Afghanistan by any means possible, even at the price of innocent lives. Their efforts will be fruitless and nobody will be able to stop Afghanistan on its way towards democracy and stability", the President said in his reaction to the news.

The President presents his condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a quick recovery to the injured.

The President instructed the relevant authorities to launch an investigation and to bring to justice the perpetrators of this crime as soon as possible.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

17 March 2005

President Karzai Calls President Clinton, Wishes Him a Prompt Recover y

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, called President Clinton last evening and wished him a prompt recovery after a surgery to remove scar tissue and fluid around his left lung.

“On behalf of the Afghan people, I pray for your quick and full recovery and I wish you success in your endeavours to help countries in need”, the President said during the phone conversation.

At the end of the phone call, the President extended an invitation to President Clinton to visit Afghanistan in the near future.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

12 March 2005

President Karzai Returns from Spain, Stresses Worldwide Cooperation for the Fight against Terrorism

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, returned today from his three-day visit to Madrid, Spain.

During his visit to Madrid, the President participated in the International Summit on Democracy, Terrorism and Security. The President addressed the Summit and stressed the need of worldwide cooperation to fight terrorism, as well as the strong commitment of
the Afghan Government to fighting this threat. The President emphasized the importance of strengthening rule of law in poor countries as a means of ensuring that such countries do not become terrorist havens. The President also highlighted the strong desire of the Afghan people for democracy and the positive progress made by the country over the last three years.

The President held bilateral talks with H.M. Juan Carlos, King of Spain, the Foreign and Defence Ministers of Spain, and with the President of Croatia. The President reiterated the gratitude of the Afghan people for their assistance in the security and reconstruction
of Afghanistan. The President thanked the Spanish Government for creating a P.R.T. in Qala-e Naw, the capital of Badghis Province. The Afghan people deeply appreciate this assistance bringing reconstruction and security to one of the poorest parts of Afghanistan.

On March 11th, the President attended remembrance ceremonies of the March 11 2004 terrorist attacks in railway stations in Madrid, which caused around 180 deaths and injured 900 people. The President, with the Defence Minister of Spain, also paid respect to the 62 Spanish soldiers who died in a plane crash in Turkey, on their way back to
Spain, after finishing their duty in Afghanistan.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

March 12, 2005

President Karzai Returns from Spain, Stresses Worldwide Cooperation for the Fight against Terrorism

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, returned today from his three-day visit to Madrid, Spain.

During his visit to Madrid, the President participated in the International Summit on Democracy, Terrorism and Security. The President addressed the Summit and stressed the need of worldwide cooperation to fight terrorism, as well as the strong commitment of the Afghan Government to fighting this threat. The President emphasized the importance of strengthening rule of law in poor countries as a means of ensuring that such countries do not become terrorist havens. The President also highlighted the strong desire of the Afghan people for democracy and the positive progress made by the country over the last three years.

The President held bilateral talks with H.M. Juan Carlos, King of Spain, H.E. José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, Prime Minister of Spain, the Foreign and Defence Ministers of Spain, and with the President of Croatia. The President reiterated the gratitude of the Afghan people for their assistance in the security and reconstruction of Afghanistan. The President thanked the Spanish Government for creating a P.R.T. in Qala-e Naw, the capital of Badghis Province. The Afghan people deeply appreciate this assistance bringing reconstruction and security to one of the poorest parts of Afghanistan.

On March 11 th, the President attended remembrance ceremonies of the March 11 2004 terrorist attacks in railway stations in Madrid, which caused around 180 deaths and injured 900 people. The President, with the Defence Minister of Spain, also paid respect to the 62 Spanish soldiers who died in a plane crash in Turkey, on their way back to Spain, after finishing their duty in Afghanistan.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

March 9, 2005  

President Karzai Leaves for Spain, Will Attend the International
Summit on Democracy, Terrorism and Security

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, left today for Madrid, Spain, on an invitation by H.M. King Juan Carlos of Spain. The President will attend the International Summit on Democracy, Terrorism and Security.

The International Summit on Democracy, Terrorism and Security is taking place from March 8-11, 2005 and expects 50 former or present Heads of States, as well as more than 200 academics and scholars.

During his trip, the President will also hold bilateral talks with the Spanish Government and will take the opportunity of this trip to thank the Spanish people for their contributions to the security and reconstruction of Afghanistan.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

March 8, 2005  

President Karzai Congratulates Women on International Women's Day –
Excerpts from President's Speech

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, congratulates today the women of Afghanistan and the world on the International Women's Day.

Addressing a celebration of Women's Day Ceremony organized this morning by the Ministry of Women's Affairs in the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul, the President said:

Women's Day

I am very happy that we are celebrating Women's Day in Afghanistan today. During the last three years, the Afghan women saw tremendous progress and strengthened their position in society. Afghan women showed that they know their rights and that they can make use of them in the best way possible in accordance to our religion and culture.

Achievements in Women's Rights

Today, Women play an important role in Afghanistan: In the last two Loya Jirgas, women's participation was in many ways more active than men's. 42% of voters taking part in the Presidential Elections were women. We have 3 women Ministers in the Cabinet; we have women Deputy Ministers and women as Heads of Departments in the government institutions. According to our Constitution, at least 25% of the seats of our Parliament will be occupied by women.

Early Marriages

Of course, women in Afghanistan still encounter challenges. Girls are married in their childhood or married off to resolve disputes. These practices are cruel, against our religion, and no longer acceptable.

Afghanistan Is Every Afghan's Home

Afghanistan does not belong to the four or five major ethnic groups. Smaller ethnic groups, such as Qirghiz and others, have as much right to this country as the four or five major ethnic groups. The people of Afghanistan are the owners of their country.

Child Kidnapping

Ever since terrorists were defeated in Afghanistan, they've tried to harm our people in whatever way possible. But every time, they have lost and we have overcome the threat. The biggest defeat of terrorists in Afghanistan was the elections in October 2004. One horrible method that terrorists have used is to kidnap our children from the streets. This is a heinous crime and it is the Government's responsibility to fight this crime and ensure the safety of its people. I have sent the Minister of the Interior to Kandahar today to investigate the recent cases of child kidnapping in Kandahar and the demonstrations by our people yesterday.

Commitment to Administrative Reform

The solution to our problems lies in bringing real reform in our administration, and in this regard, I will not accept friendships, connections, or any other considerations. I won't have regard for whether people have supported my elections campaign. By voting for me as their President, people are expecting me to improve their Government for them and I will not stop at personal or political connections to do this.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

March 2, 2005  

The Fight against Narcotics Is On and Will Continue Unabated Until a
Narcotics-Free Afghanistan

Presidential Palace, Kabul – In the light of a new report released today by the International Narcotics Control Board, the following statement is issued by the Office of the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan:

The Government of Afghanistan, within the help of the international community, is firmly pursuing the fight against narcotics on all fronts, including eradication of poppy fields, curtailing of drug production, interdiction and punishing of trafficking, and, above all, the provision of alternative livelihoods to farmers and affected communities. This campaign will continue unabated until Afghanistan becomes a narcotics-free country.

The Government of Afghanistan has adopted the 2005 Counter-Narcotics Implementation Plan to tackle the cultivation, production and trafficking of drugs in Afghanistan. There are eight Pillars in the Afghan Government's new implementation plan, which includes building institutions, alternative livelihood, interdiction and law enforcement, criminal justice, poppy eradication, demand reduction and treatment of addicts and regional cooperation.

The Government is working to close drug markets, seize narcotics, which are being smuggled all over Afghanistan, and to arrest those involved in drug smuggling and are reforming the judicial systems in order to be able to bring drug smugglers to justice.

In 2004, Afghanistan Special Narcotics Force (ASNF) has seized over 80 tons of narcotics, destroyed over 75 drug laboratories, and closed drug markets, including 2 major opium bazaars. The Counter Narcotics Police have expanded to over 750 officers, and will increase further. And a National Interdiction Unit will be established soon, there will be 9 more mobile detection teams (over 100 officers).

15 teams (over 120 people) are to be deployed in a targeted way across Afghanistan from mid-February to verify the eradication already taken place.  The result will be internationally-endorsed verification of Afghan Government efforts.

Extensive operations by security forces, in cooperation with the people of Afghanistan, to eradicate poppy cultivation all over Afghanistan have already begun and have been very successful. As a result of eradication efforts, as well as widespread voluntary restraints by farmers, poppy cultivation during this planting season has decreased. There is, however, need for provision of alternative livelihoods in order to sustain the success in reducing cultivation.

The President met this afternoon with H.E. Gareth Thomas, British Minister for International Development and Head of D.F.I.D. and emphasized on the need for the provision of alternative livelihoods to the affected farmers.

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Press Release

February 26, 2005  

Statement on Preparations for Parliamentary Elections

Presidential Palace, Kabul –Following is the statement of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan regarding preparations for the upcoming parliamentary elections:

The Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan is committed to the holding of credible parliamentary elections as soon as possible. The date of the elections will be determined by the Joint Electoral Management Body, which is tasked with holding the elections and consists of members of the Independent Electoral Commission and the United Nations.

The Government is providing full support to the JEMB so that adequate preparations are in place for the parliamentary elections. The fact that thousands of candidates are expected to contest parliamentary elections in multiple constituencies makes the parliamentary elections a complex undertaking.

The JEMB made a presentation to the Cabinet during its February 14 meeting on the status of the preparation of the elections and requested Cabinet's decisions on a number of issues, including the electoral system, constituency boundaries, population figures and participation of Kuchis and refugees in the elections.

In the same meeting, the Cabinet affirmed the electoral system under the Electoral Law which provides a voter the opportunity to vote directly to the candidate of his or her choice. On the constituency boundaries, the Cabinet noted that there were significant number of disputes about the number and boundaries of districts. In light of Article 90 of the Constitution, the Cabinet decided that the issue will be referred to the Wolesi Jirga for resolution. Meanwhile the Cabinet requested the advisory opinion of the Supreme Court with regard to the constitutional implications of the matter. On refugees, the Cabinet decided that they should be provided the opportunity to participate in the elections and requested the JEMB to make a presentation on the operational feasibility of it next time. Finally, the Cabinet established a special committee to study options for population figures and the number of seats for Kuchis.

The next Cabinet meeting on February 28 will study the report of the special committee on the population figures and Kuchis, the Advisory Opinion of the Supreme Court with regard to district shura elections, and the operational plan for participation of refugees in the parliamentary elections.

The Government hopes that decision on these issues will pave the way for the JEMB to declare the date of the parliamentary elections soon.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

February 22, 2005  

President Karzai's Statement on the Launching of Afghanistan's First
National Human Development Report

Presidential Palace, Kabul – The following statement was issued yesterday on behalf of H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan at the launch of Afghanistan's First National Human Development Report:

"I received Afghanistan's first National Human Development Report with great pleasure. This report places Afghanistan, for the first time, in global development comparisons.

The findings of the report are grim: Our nation falls at the bottom of the Human Development Index.

The fact that more of our mothers die in childbirth than anywhere on earth, and that the illiteracy rate in Afghanistan is higher than almost anywhere in the world is understandable, but no longer acceptable.

My government intends to use this report for policy guidance and as a yardstick with which to measure its future achievements.

I would like to extend appreciation to UNDP for supporting and guiding the publication of this important report. I would also like to extend my appreciation to all those who contributed to it."

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

February 22, 2005

President Karzai Is Saddened by News of Earthquake in Iran    

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened by the news of an earthquake early this morning in central Iran that has left many people dead and injured.

First reports show that the epicenter of the earthquake was on the outskirts of Zarand, 35 miles northwest of Kerman.

"I am saddened to hear this news. I hope the casualty numbers will not be large. In any case, I send mine and the Afghan people's deep condolences to those affected and to the brotherly people of Iran", the President said in his reaction to the news.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

February 22, 2005  

President Karzai Will Leave on a Visit to India

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, will leave tomorrow on a 3-day official visit to India.

During his trip, the President will hold talks with H.E. Abdul Kalam, President of India, H.E. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, a number of Indian government ministers and Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Leader of the Congress Party. Issues of bilateral importance will be discussed in these meetings.

The President will also address the India Today Conclave 2005, to be held in New Delhi on 25 and 26 February 2005. The India Today Conclave is a forum organized by India Today Magazine for an exchange of ideas among decision makers. The India Today Conclave expects speakers such as H.E. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, H.E. Shaukat Aziz, Prime Minister of Pakistan, Nobel Laureate V.S. Naipaul, Chief Guest Senator Hillary Clinton, and Mr.Amitabh Bachchan. The theme of this year's conclave will be "India Tomorrow: Perception versus Reality."

The President looks forward the opportunity of the visit to thank the people of India for their contributions towards the rebuilding of Afghanistan, especially in the area of infrastructure.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

February 21, 2005  

President Karzai Returns From Saudi Arabia

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, returned today from his two-day visit to Saudi Arabia.

During his visit, the President addressed the Jeddah Economic Forum, highlighting the economic opportunities in Afghanistan to investors and entrepreneurs in the region. The President held bilateral talks with H.R.H. Crown Prince Abdullah and H.E. Shaukat Aziz, Prime Minister of Pakistan.

The President also performed the Umrah pilgrimage, and gifted, on behalf of the Afghan people, traditional Afghan carpets to the Holy Mosque of the Prophet (PBUH) in the Holy city of Madina.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

February 18, 2005  

President Karzai Leaves for Saudi Arabia, Will Attend Jeddah Economic Forum

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, left today on a visit to Saudi Arabia. The main purpose of his trip is to attend the Jeddah Economic Forum which will take place from 19 to 21 February 2005.

The forum is meeting for the 6th consecutive year and expects more than 2000 delegates, including heads of states. The theme of this year's forum will be "Capacity Building: Developing People for
Sustainable Growth". The President will address the forum and talk about Afghanistan economic potential and the opportunities for international investors and businessmen. Other prominent speakers
invited include H.E. Vaclav Klaus, President of Czech Republic, H.E. Abdoulaye Wade, President of Senegal, and H.E. Shaukat Aziz, Prime Minister of Pakistan.

During his trip, the President will also hold bilateral talks with Crown Prince Abdullah and perform the Umrah pilgrimage.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

February 15, 2005

President Karzai and Prime Minister Blair Discuss Counter-Narcotics

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, received a phone call today at 6 p.m. from H.E. Tony Blair, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

The fight against narcotics and the Government of Afghanistan’s strategy, which is also supported by the international community, were discussed during the conversation.

Noting the progress achieved in reducing poppy cultivation in many areas of Afghanistan recently, the President reiterated his rock-solid commitment to rid Afghanistan of the menace of drugs. Both leaders agreed on the need for international assistance especially in providing alternative livelihoods to the affected communities.

The President also extended an invitation to Prime Minister Blair to visit Afghanistan at some point in the future.

The President will be meeting H.E. Jack Straw, the British Foreign Secretary, who is arriving in Kabul on official visit tomorrow, 16 February 2005. The counter-narcotics implementation plan for 2005 will be the main subject in the discussion between the President and the Foreign Secretary.

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Press Release

February 15, 2005

President Karzai Meets with the Visiting Indian Foreign Minister, Hopes India Will Be in Favour of Pipeline Project Going Through Afghanistan

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, met with H.E. Natwar Singh, the Foreign Minister of India who arrived on an official visit to Kabul today 15 February 2005.

H.E. Natwar Singh congratulated the President on the successful elections in Afghanistan as well as other major achievements over the past year. The purpose of his visit, Mr. Natwar Singh said, was to further strengthen cooperation between Afghanistan and India, especially in the area of trade and investment.

President Karzai expressed appreciation for India’s contribution in the reconstruction of Afghanistan.

“I realize India is not a major donor country, but in Afghanistan, India has been one of the largest contributors”, the President said.

Afghanistan will meet the goodwill of India by providing good opportunities in Afghanistan for Indian businesses and investment.

The President expressed hope that India will look favorably at the pipeline project going through Afghanistan from Turkmenistan. The Project has significant economic benefit to Afghanistan and the region.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

February 15, 2005

President Karzai Condemns Terrorist Attack in Lebanon

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, strongly condemns the terrorist attack yesterday in Beirut, Lebanon, causing the death of at least 14 people, including former Prime Minister Rafik al-Hariri.

At least 135 people were hurt in the explosion.

“I condemn terrorist actions anywhere in the world, and this incident in Lebanon in particular. On behalf of the people of Afghanistan, I would like to present my sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Lebanon”, the President said in his reaction to the news.

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Press Release

February 15, 2005

President Karzai Is Saddened by Incident in Iranian Mosque

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is saddened that a fire in a Tehran mosque resulted in the death of 59 people.

More than 250 people were injured during the incident.

“On behalf of the people of Afghanistan, I would like to present my sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Iran”, The President said in his reaction to the news.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

February 13, 2005

President Karzai Is Deeply Concerned by Deaths Caused by Cold Weather

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is deeply concerned by the occurrence of deaths, especially among children, caused by cold weather in different provinces of Afghanistan.

At the order of the President, a commission has been established to provide assistance to vulnerable communities in various parts of the country. The commission includes the ministries of Health, Rural Rehabilitation and Development, the Interior, Defense, Public Works, Urban Development, Refugees, the Department for National Security, and Kabul Municipality, with cooperation from the United Nations and the United States Agency for International Development. The commission is tasked to provide emergency response and assistance to the people most affected by the cold spell, and take preventive measures for the effects of the cold weather on people’s health.

The President remains constantly updated on the work of the commission.

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Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

February 10, 2005

President Karzai Presents Condolences to the Families of the Kam Air Crash Victims

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, said this afternoon that he believed that there were no survivors from the Kam Air Boeing 737 flight, which crashed on Thursday 3 February 2005 in Kabul.

Addressing a press availability at the Presidential Palace this afternoon, following his meeting with the ministers and representatives of the organisations leading the ongoing search operation, the President said:

“Today, I had a meeting with the ministers of Defence and Transport, and representatives of ISAF and other ministries involved in the search operation for the Kam Air airplane. They reported to me that, unfortunately, no one from the passengers and crew on the plane are alive. Therefore, I present my deep condolences to the people of Afghanistan, especially to the families of the victims. My sympathy also goes to the families of the foreigners who also perished in the crash.”

“This incident made us extremely sad. The crash of the Kam Air plane took place last Thursday, and the location of the incident was found two days later. The Ministries of the Interior, Defence, Transport and Health, along with the ISAF, the CFC and other organisations went to the location and investigated the incident, despite many difficulties. Four or five persons from the National Army are currently in hospital being treated for frostbite and other injuries during the operation.”

“The result of the investigation shows that the crash of the Kam Air plane happened in a way that there was no chance for anyone on board to survive. Different parts of the plane are scattered over a very wide area. Now, means have to be found to return the bodies to the families of the victims. The team is also searching for the black box, which will help the investigation and will provide details of the incident to the people of Afghanistan. May God protect the people of Afghanistan from this kind of tragedy in the future.”

“I would like to thank the ISAF and Coalition forces, the ministries of Defence, the Interior, Health and Transport, and other bodies who have taken part in the search and rescue operations under very hard conditions”.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

February 6, 2005

President Karzai Is Saddened by News Confirming Crash of Kam Air Boeing 737

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is deeply saddened by the news confirming the crash of Kam Air Boeing 737 plane that had been missing since Thursday 03 February 2005.

The search and rescue teams were able yesterday afternoon to locate the site, near the district of Khak-e Jabar to the east of Kabul, where the crash took place.

The President follows the progress of the rescue operations very closely, and has issued necessary instructions for determining casualties and other circumstances of this tragedy.

The President is praying, along with families and friends, for those who were on the plane.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

February 2, 2005

Afghanistan will not accept aid conditionality

Kabul - The Government of Afghanistan objects to a recent statement in the media attributed to Mr. Antonio Maria Costa, the Chief of United Nations Organisation for Drugs and Crime, proposing international aid to Afghanistan to be conditional upon eliminating poppy cultivation.

Mr. Costa was reported to have said: “International aid to Afghanistan should be made conditional on the country showing real results and progress in the fight against opium production.”

Reacting to Mr Costa’s statement, Mr. Habibullah Qaderi, the Minister of Counter Narcotics of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, said:

“Afghanistan is fully committed to eliminating the cultivation, production and trafficking of drugs in Afghanistan, and we are already making progress in achieving tangible results in this fight. We believe that, given the multi-dimensional aspects of the narcotics problem, the international community shares equal responsibility, and we are confident the international community is prepared to fulfill that responsibility.”

“However, Afghanistan will not accept the suggestion that international aid to Afghanistan be tied, in any direct or indirect way, to the fight against narcotics. I would like to urge Mr. Costa to continue to encourage the international community to provide resources for alternative livelihoods of the affected communities in a timely manner.”

Issued by Ministry of Counter Narcotics
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

January 31, 2005

President Karzai Congratulates the People of Iraq on Their Elections

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is encouraged by the successful conduct of the elections in Iraq and higher than expected turn-out of the Iraqi people participating in the elections, and expresses hope for the return of lasting peace and prosperity in that country.

Opening the regular weekly Cabinet meeting of the Government this morning, the President said:

“Yesterday, the people of Iraq poured to the voting centres, despite threats and cast their votes. I congratulate the brotherly nation of Iraq for this success. The successful conduct of the elections in Iraq is undoubtedly a big step forward towards the return of lasting peace, stability and prosperity deserved by our Iraqi brothers and sisters. The Afghan people join me to pray for the further success of the people of Iraq.”

Last Friday, the President called on the Iraqi people to take this historical opportunity and vote for democracy and peace in their country.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

January 24, 2005 

President Karzai Prayed for the Success of the Iraqi People in their Elections

 Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, asked the people of Iraq, today, during the Cabinet meeting, to go to the polling centers and cast their vote for the prosperity of their country and propagation of democracy in a new Iraq.

"By casting their votes, the Afghan people acquired Pride and Glory and showed to the world that Afghanistan is a prosperous nation concerned about its future", the President said during the cabinet
meeting today.

"We showed through our votes that we now own a legitimate country which walks towards development and reconstruction. Likewise, our Iraqi brothers and sisters should go to the ballot and play their role in determining their country's destiny, thus acquiring Pride and Glory", the President added.

"The Iraqi people must not fear terrorists. Instead, they should make their elections a success with bravery and courage, and with the experience drawn from their historic culture; they must endeavor to
ensure the rule of democracy and the right to elect their leader", the President also added.

At the end of the Cabinet meeting, H.E. Hamid Karzai and the Cabinet members of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan prayed for the success and betterment of the brotherly country of Iraq.
  
Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

January 8, 2005 

President Karzai Encourages Blood Donation Initiative for Tsunami Victims

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, welcomes the initiative taken by the Afghan people in donating blood to the victims of the South Asian Tsunami.

“I encourage the Afghan people to keep donating blood to this good cause. Solidarity is highly valued in our culture. During the past two decades, the Afghan people experienced war and devastation and relied heavily on international assistance.  Today, the Afghan people are pleased to provide assistance to the victims of this tragedy”, the President said this morning.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

January 6, 2005

Afghanistan Expresses Deep Grief at Tsunami Devastation

Kabul - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan sent messages of sympathy and condolences to the countries affected and the countries suffered Human casualties due to the Tsunami Disaster.

H.E Hamid Karzai the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and H.E Dr. Abdullah Abdullah the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan conveyed their heartfelt condolences on behalf of the People and the Government of Afghanistan to the Leaders and Foreign Ministers of the Countries directly hit by the disaster.

H.E Hamid Karzai and H.E Dr. Abdullah also expressed their deepest sympathies to the Leaders and Foreign Ministers of those Countries which suffered human casualties and lost citizens due to their presence in the devastated regions.

The messages of sympathy and condolence were sent to India, Bangladesh, Srilanka, Maldives, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Burma, Philippine, Singapore, China, South Korea, South Africa, Tanzania, Somalia, Poland, Russia, Czech Republic, Croatia, Hungary, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, United Kingdom, Ireland, Iceland, Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Luxemburg, Greece, Brazil, The United States of America and Canada.

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Press Release

January 5, 2005

By President’s Decree, an Interim Supreme Court is formed

Presidential Palace, Kabul – The following Presidential Decree was signed on 3 January 2005 by the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan:

DECREE OF
THE PRESIDENT OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF AFGHANISTAN
ON FORMATION OF THE INTERIM SUPREME COURT AND APPOINTMENT OF ITS MEMBERS

No. 13, Dated 14 Jaddi 1383

Article 1: As per the third paragraph of Article 160 of the Constitution, the Interim Supreme Court is formed by this decree.

Article 2: Appointment of the chairman and members of the Interim Supreme Court is approved as below:

1. Esteemed Fazl Hadi Shinwari as chief justice and chairman of the Supreme Court
2. Mawlawi Fazl Wahab as member of the Supreme Court
3. Mawlawi Qiamoddin Kashaf as member of the Supreme Court
4. Mawlawi Sayed Omar Monib as member of the Supreme Court
5. Mawlawi Abdorrazaq Mosamem as member of the Supreme Court
6. Mawlawi Samar Gol Ashraf as member of the Supreme Court
7. Mawlawi Morad Ali Morad as member of the Supreme Court
8. Mawlawi Mohammad Azim Jalili as member of the Supreme Court
9. Mawlawi Mohammad Hashem Salehi as member of the Supreme Court

Article 3: The chairman and members of the Interim Supreme Court, as mentioned in the second of this decree, should continue their jobs until the Supreme Court is formed based on the second paragraph of Article 161 and according to the provisions of Article 117 and Article 118 of the Constitution.

Article 4: Military judges working within the structure of the Supreme Court should be discharged and introduced to the National Defence Ministry within 30 days after the announcement of this decree.

Article 5: This decree comes into force from 14 Jaddi 1383 (3 January 2005) and should be published in the official gazette.

HAMID KARZAI
PRESIDENT OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF AFGHANISTAN

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

January 1, 2005  

Presidential Palace, Kabul –   H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, wishes all NATO, Coalition and ISAF soldiers serving in Afghanistan a happy New Year.

On behalf of the Afghan people, the President thanks them and is grateful for their assistance in providing security.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

December 30, 2005

By President’s Order, Afghanistan Flag to Be Half Mast to Respect Victims of South East Asia Quake

Presidential Palace, Kabul – The following Presidential Order was signed today by the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan:

ORDER OF
THE PRESIDENT OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF AFGHANISTAN
ABOUT SYMPATHY WITH VICTIMS OF EARTHQUAKE IN SOUTH EAST ASIA

            No. 159, Dated 10 Jaddi 1383

The recent earthquake and tsunamis in the South East of Asia is a massive human tragedy that has resulted in the large scale death of humans and destruction of territories. To show sympathy of people of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, and to pay respect to the dead and otherwise affected by this terrible event, the National Flag of Afghanistan will fly half-mast on all government offices in the capital and provinces, as well as those on the premises of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan’s diplomatic representations overseas, for three days beginning on 12 Jaddi 1383 (1 January 2005).

Hamid Karzai
President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

December 27, 2004   

President Karzai Welcomes Decision of Minister of Justice to Renounce his Membership of a Political Party

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, welcomes the decision of Mr.Mohammad Sarwar Danish, Minister of Justice of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, to renounce his membership of a political party, the Wahdat-e Islami of Afghanistan.

In a letter addressed to the President, Mr.Danish stated that his decision was taken in accordance to Article 80 of the Constitution, as well as the emphasis by the President on ministers to shed all political affiliations to focus solely on serving the people.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

December 26, 2004   

President Karzai Is Deeply Saddened by Deaths in Asian Countries

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is deeply saddened by the news of the massive earthquake and consequent flooding in South East Asia that have left thousands of people dead and missing in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Thailand, Maldives and Indonesia.

“On behalf of the people of Afghanistan, I would like to present my sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of those countries”, the President said at the hearing of the news.

Released by the Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

December 26, 2004   

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, through separate Presidential Decrees issued on 5 Jaddi ( 25 December 2004) has authorized the following appointments:

1. Mr.Shafiq Gul Agha Sherzay has been appointed as Minister Advisor and Governor of Kandahar
2. General Sayed Hossain Anwari has been appointed as the Governor of Kabul
3. Mr. Noorullah Dilawari has been appointed Director of Da Afghanistan Bank.

In these separate decrees, the President wishes the newly appointed officials success in the accomplishment of their responsibilities at the service of the people of Afghanistan.

Released by Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

December 23, 2004

Following is the text of Presidential decree issued today regarding appointment of the members of the cabinet of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan:

Decree

By the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan about the appointment of the cabinet members of the Government of

Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

In the Name of Allah the Almighty, while wishing prosperity for the people of Afghanistan and a clean and effective administration for the country, I appoint and approve, as per Article 64 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, the following persons as the ministers in the cabinet of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan:

1. Hedayat Amin-Arsala as the minister of commerce and senior advisor to the president.
2. Dr. Abdullah Abdullah son of Ghulam Mahayuddin as the minister of foreign affairs.
3. Gen. Abdurrahim Wardak son of Abdul Ghani Wardak as the minister of national defense.
4. Ali Ahmad Jalali son of Ghulam Jailani Jalali as the minister of the interior.
5. Dr. Zalmay Rasul son of Dr. Abdul Qayum Rasul as the national security advisor.
6. Noor Mohmamad Qarqin son of Mohammad Qul as the minister of education.
7. Anwar-ul Haq Ahadi son of Abdol Haq Ahadi as the minister of finance.
8. Dr Mir Mohammad Amin Farhang son of Mir Mohammad Sediq Farhang as the minister of economics.
9. Gen. Mohammmad Ismael son of Mir Mohammad Aslam as the minister of energy.
10. Dr Enayatullah Qasemi son of Ahmad Ali as minister of transport.
11. Eng. Amirzai Sangeen son of Amir Gul Gulshakheil as the minister of communication.
12. Eng. Mir Mohmmad Sediq son of Mir Ghulam Sakhi as the minister of mines and industries.
13. Dr. Suhrab Ali Safari son of Haji Safar Mohammamad as the minister of public works.
14. Eng. Mohammad Yusof Pashtun as the minister of urban development.
15. Obaidullah Ramin son of Mohammad Omar as the minister of agriculture and food.
16. Sarwar Danish son of Mohammad Ali as the minister of justice.
17. Sayed Amir Shah Hassanyar son of Ghulam Hassan as the minister of higher educations.
18. Dr. Sayed Makhdum Rahin son of Mir Mohammad Sharif as the minister of information and culture.
19. Dr. Sayed Mohammad Amin Fatemi son of Sayed Ebrar Padshah as the minister of public health.
20. Prof. Nematullah Shahrani son of Ebadullah as the minister of Hajj and religious affairs.
21. Abdul Karim Brahui son of Mohammad Mobin as the minister of borders and tribal affairs.
22. Dr Masouda Jalal daughter of Tela Mohamamd as the minister of women’s affairs.
23. Sayed Ekramuddin Masoomi son of the Sayed Masoon as the minister of social and labor affairs.
24. Dr. Azam Dadfar son of Haji Baba Khan as the minister of refugees affairs.
25. Sediqa Balkhi daughter of Sayed Ismael Balkhi as the minister of Martyrs and Disabled
26. Hanif Atmar son of Mohammad Asef as the minister of rural development.
27. Habibullah Qadery son of Haji Ahmad Qadery as the minister of counter-narcotics.

I would like to express gratitude and appreciation to the members of the cabinet of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan who worked, under difficult circumstances, for the strengthening of peace, stability and the reconstruction of the country.

The motto and guiding principles of the work of ministers in the cabinet of Afghanistan will consist of: the commitment to the aspiration of the people, service to religion and nation, lack of political partisanship, honesty and faith in carrying out duties, a responsible attitudes towards the public treasury, prevention of any misuse of the nation’s wealth, registration and declaration of private property and assets within two weeks [of the issuance of this decree], transparency, consciousness, faithfulness and deference to the high interests of the country, and application of the law.

I pray to God the Almighty for the further success of cabinet members and the people of Afghanistan in the further strengthening of national unity, reconstruction of the country and implementation of the Constitution.

This decree is shall go into effect from the date of issuance, and shall be published in the official gazette.

Hamid Karzai
President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Released by Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

December 23, 2004

Following is the text of the Presidential decree issued today regarding structural changes to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan:

Decree

By the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan about the Merger of Some Ministries of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

In order to prevent duplication in functions and to ensure executive efficiency in the ministries of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, the following changes and mergers within the structure of the Government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan shall be implemented:

• Creation of the Counter Narcotics Ministry
• Creation of the Ministry of Economics as a result of merger between the former ministries for Planning and Reconstruction
• Merger of the ministries of Civil Aviation and Transport into the new Ministry of Transport
• Merger of the Ministry of Light Industries into the Ministry of Mines and Industries
• Transfer of the Food department from the Ministry of Light Industries to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food.
• Transfer of Tourism department from the Civil Aviation Ministry to the Ministry of Information and Culture
• Creation of the Independent Directorate on Environment.

The relevant ministries are instructed to take necessary measures for putting the changes into practice and transferring the affected department. As part of the implementation plan, necessary measures shall be taken to ensure the redeployment of the employees of the relevant ministries affected.

This decree shall go into effect from date of its issuance, and shall be published in the official gazette.

Hamid Karzai
President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Released by Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

December 23, 2004   

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, through a Presidential Decree dated 23 December 2004 announced new appointments to the Cabinet of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The list of the new appointed Ministers is indicated below.

The Office of the Spokesperson to the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan will issue more detailed biographical information about the newly appointed Ministers tomorrow.

Released by Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

December 15, 2004   

President karzai saddened and angered by the killing of Turkish engineer in kunar province

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is deeply saddened and angered by the killing of a Turkish engineer, who had been abducted in the Chawki district of Kunar province yesterday afternoon.

The Turkish engineer was working on the Jalalabad-Kunar road project for a construction company.

“I am angered that the enemies of Afghanistan have killed a brother and fellow Muslim in pursuit of their goal of disrupting reconstruction in Afghanistan. I instruct our security institutions to use any means possible to bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice”, the President said at hearing the news.

“On behalf of the Afghan people, I would like to present my sincere condolences to the family of the martyred engineer”, the President added.

Released by Office of the Spokesman to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press release

December 14, 2004

Afghan government debates options for rural finance opium economy presents challenges

Kabul - With the objective of developing rural credit
and addressing the problem of opium debt, the Government of Afghanistan convened a
two-day workshop to discuss experience and put forward recommendations for increasing the quality and outreach of the rural financial sector. The
workshop, organized by the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD) with support from the World Bank and the UK Department for
International Development, particularly focused on the challenges the opium economy presents to rural financial markets.

Opening the workshop yesterday (Monday 13th December), the Minister for Rural Rehabilitation and Development, Haneef Atmar said "The issue of economic growth in rural areas is not just critical for poverty reduction, but also for the dignity of Afghans."  Minister Atmar stressed that the issue of narcotics could be disastrous for Afghanistan.  He asked participants, in his
remarks, for their help in devising creative solutions. "Please help us save this nation," he said.

Addressing many specialists in the field of rural finance, NGOs, commercial banks, international and bilateral development agencies, as well as
representatives of farmers and agribusiness, Minister Atmar said that the poor in rural areas will remain marginalized unless the government comes up with
concrete ideas and plans to offer real alternatives to opium debt.

During the opening section of the proceedings, the UK Ambassador, Dr Rosalind Marsden, said that "The UK is already working hard with the Afghan government
and its international partners to help support the development of the Afghan economy and tackle the drugs problem, particularly to provide alternative livelihoods in poor, rural areas. The National Counter Narcotics Conference on 9/10 December called upon the international community to provide further
assistance.  Today's meeting, organized by MRRD with the assistance of the UK and World Bank, is looking at what more we can do to improve access to credit
for farmers across Afghanistan and help break the opium debt cycle."

The Country Manager for the World Bank in Afghanistan, Jean Mazurelle, said that "the government has launched a massive rural reconstruction effort which
the World Bank and other donors are supporting.  Rural finance is a key element in reviving the rural economy, and in supporting the robust and rapid
economic growth essential for the country's development."

Presenters from different organizations articulated options for rural finance promoting alternatives to Afghanistan's opium economy and presented a map of
current practices and challenges for the country.  The workshop emphasized the collective effort of the Government of Afghanistan and donors to
strengthen ongoing national programs such as the National Solidarity Program (NSP), Microfinance Investment Support Facility for Afghanistan (MISFA) and National Emergency Employment Program (NEEP).

Some of the recommendations from the workshop were:
- The creation of a task-force, led by the World Bank and DFID, to look at modeling options for refinancing opium indebtedness.  The task-force was also asked to look at options for scaling-up and developing pilot programs.
- USAID agreed to seek ways to develop better coordination between all programs to further develop licit alternatives for producers, processors and traders building on the current Rebuilding Agriculture Markets Program (RAMP). DFID will complement the effort on preferential markets.
- NSP, MISFA and NEEP will seek to extend activities in the seven largest poppy producing provinces and look at linkages between their programs at the national level.
- The World Bank agreed to provide an options paper on the informal financial sector and existing Afghan financial institutions as they relate to developing alternatives to the opium economy.

Speaking at the conclusion of the workshop, Minister Atmar endorsed the recommendations of the workshop and emphasized the need for prompt
delivery of actions. Minister Atmar acknowledged the support from the World Bank and DFID in dealing with this important development issue.

Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development

Press Release

December 8, 2004   

H.E. President Karzai to open two-day national conference on counter-narcotics

Presidential Palace, Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan tomorrow (Thursday 9th December) formally open a two-day National Conference on Counter Narcotics being held at the same venue as his historic inauguration as the President of Afghanistan on Tuesday. 

In his inaugural speech, President Karzai reiterated that the fight against narcotics in Afghanistan will be among the top priorities of his new government that is expected to be announced shortly.   “Our principle promises concern the strengthening of the security sector and ensuring lasting stability throughout the country, the elimination of poppy cultivation and the fight against the processing and trafficking of drugs,” said President Karzai to the assembled Afghan dignitaries. The National Conference on Counter Narcotics endorses President Karzai’s determination to combat the cultivation, production and trafficking of drugs in Afghanistan.  The conference will discuss the action to be taken by the Government and people of Afghanistan in the campaign against narcotics over the coming year. 

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Press Release

December 3, 2004

The Reaction of The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan on The Remarks of The Russian Defense Minister

Kabul: The Government of Afghanistan notes, with shock, remarks about Afghanistan by the Russian Defense Minister, Mr. Sergei Ivanov. During his recent visit to India, Mr. Ivanov described the current political process in Afghanistan in ethnic terms as a “straight way to war”.

The Government of Afghanistan strongly objects to the remarks by Mr. Ivanov, which constitutes a direct interference in the internal affairs of Afghanistan. Mr. Ivanov’s characterization of the political process in Afghanistan along ethnic lines is totally unwarranted.

The unveiled reference to another “war” in Afghanistan reflects a lack of desire for peace in Afghanistan. We hope and think that these statements do not reflect the policy of the Government of the Russian Federation. We expect from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to present a clarification on the above mentioned statements.

The Government also notes, with deep concern, that Mr. Ivanov’s remarks were uttered following a meeting with his Indian counterpart in New Delhi. India is considered, by the people of Afghanistan, as a close friend with whom we have deep cultural and historical ties. We therefore expect that the Government of India will distance itself from Mr Ivano’s remarks.

Office of the Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Kabul, Afghanistan

Press Release

December 1, 2004

President Karzai Is Deeply Saddened by Deaths in Philippines Floods

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan and President Elect, is deeply saddened by the news of landslides and floods in northeastern Philippines, resulting in the death of over 400 people.

“On behalf of the Afghan people, I present my condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of the Philippines”, the President said at the hearing of the news.

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 24, 2004

President Karzai Meets with the 3 Ex-Hostages

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan and President Elect, met this morning at the Presidential Palace with Annetta Flanigan, Angelito Nayan and Shqipe Hebibi, the 3 U.N. workers, who had been kidnapped on the 28 October in Kabul, and were released yesterday morning.

“The Afghan people and the international community were very worried about you and I am delighted that you were released safe and sound,” the President said during the meeting.

“You came to Afghanistan to serve and help our country, and the Afghan people are grateful to you for that. The Afghan people took a strong and clear position and condemned the kidnapping. Ordinary Afghan men and women even offered to take your place,” The President added.

“Hospitality is a very important value in Afghanistan, and through the release of the hostages, Afghanistan’s good reputation was restored,” The President said.

At the end of the meeting, the President offered gifts to the ex-hostages.

“I am offering to you this traditional cape which I wore in the United Nations Assembly,’’ the President said while presenting a traditional cape as a gift to Angelito Nayan.

The President also announced that the 3 U.N. Workers would be granted a special medal for distinction and courage.

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 23, 2004

The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan is Extremely Pleased by the Release of the Kidnapped UN Electoral Workers

KABUL–The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is Extremely Pleased by the release of the kidnapped United Nation Electoral Workers. The UN Electoral Workers were freed through the deliberative efforts exerted by The National Security Forces of Afghanistan and the Multinational Coalition Forces present in the country.

The Foreign Minister of Afghanistan H.E Dr. A. Abdullah Abdullah “expressed great relief and happiness upon learning of the release of the UN Electoral workers."

H.E Dr. Abdullah said, the “release of the UN workers constituted a remarkable accomplishment against terrorism and the enemies of Afghanistan."

H.E Dr. Abdullah added, “the Afghan People and Government express their happiness on this occasion to the Governments and families of the released hostages."

The Workers were freed in the early morning hours today after being kept hostage for nearly three weeks.

Office of the Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Press Release

November 23, 2004

President Karzai Hails the Release of 3 Hostages

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan and President Elect, hails the release of the 3 U.N. workers, who had been kidnapped on the 28 October in Kabul.

“I am delighted to hear that the U.N. workers who came to Afghanistan to serve and help our country are free, safe and sound,” the President said.

“The successful conclusion of the hostages situation is a tribute to the capable handling of the issue by the Afghan authorities, in close collaboration with our international friends. The Afghan people also took a strong and clear position and ensured that the values of hospitality and decency triumphed over violence and criminality,” the President added.

The President compliments the security apparatus of the Afghan Government, the ISAF and Coalition Forces, the U.N. and all others concerned for the success of the operation. The President hopes that the 3 U.N. workers are in good health and will soon return to their families.

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 22, 2004

KABUL– The Cabinet regular meeting held today at the Presidential Palace considered the recent article published in the New York Times (Afghan Poppy Growing Reaches Record Level, Carlotta Gall, 19 November 2004), in which a wrong assertion has been made, with reference to western diplomats, about the implication in drug trafficking of certain Cabinet members of the Afghan Government.

The Cabinet meeting condemned this wrong assertion, considering it completely inaccurate, and urged the New York Times to study carefully assertions of this nature in the future.

The meeting reemphasized the strong and unflinching commitment of the Afghan Government to fighting the cultivation and trafficking of narcotics, and reaffirmed the need for real support from the international community in this regard. 

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 22, 2004

The President Is Deeply Saddened by the News of 103 Deaths in Northern China

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan and President Elect, was deeply saddened by the news of two separate incidents in northern China which caused the death of 103 persons in total.

Yesterday, a commuter jet crashed into a frozen lake in northern China and killed 54 people, while 49 miners were killed separately by a massive blaze at a complex of iron mines in northern China.

“On behalf of the Afghan people, I would like to present my sincere condolences to the Chinese people, especially to the families of the victims from the two unfortunate incidents. I also hope that workers still trapped in the mine where the blast occurred will be rescued safely and rapidly,” the President said in his reaction to the news.

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 18, 2004

About the Commitment by the Government of Afghanistan to the Fight Against narcotics and Concerns about the Aerial Spraying of Poppy Fields

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan and President Elect, in accordance with his stated policies and commitments for the elected period, considers narcotics the most significant threat against national interests, stability, security and prosperity of the Afghan people, a threat the extent of which may be bigger than that of terrorism in the region. Therefore, the fight against narcotics will be the top priority for the elected government, and the President is strongly committed to this fight in all its dimensions, including but not limited to the eradication of poppy fields.

Lately, reports have been received from some districts of Nangarhar province about the application of aerial spraying of lands believed to have been cultivated with poppy. While emphasizing its strong commitment to the eradication of poppy fields, the Government of Afghanistan opposes the aerial spraying of poppy fields as an instrument of eradication. In addition, the President is deeply concerned about complaints from the region pointing to possible side effects of the aerial spraying on the health of children and adults. Therefore, the formation of a joint investigation team from Ministries of Agriculture and Health has been authorized to travel to the area and prepare a detailed report for the President in this regard.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 11, 2004

President Karzai Saddened by the Death of President Arafat

KABUL- H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of
Afghanistan and President Elect, is deeply saddened by the death of H.E.
Yasser Arafat, President of the Palestinian Authority.

In his reaction to the news, the President said:

"It is with deep regrets and sadness that I hear the news of President Arafat's death. Mr. Arafat was a great personality, whose courage and leadership was respected worldwide for well over half a century. He dedicated his life to the Palestinian people and their cause, and strived to achieve lasting peace in the Middle East."

"While his absence will undoubtedly be felt strongly, I hope that a new generation of leaders will emerge to take forward the cause of peace and stability in the Middle East."

"I present my sincere condolences to the Palestinian people and to the family of late President Arafat."

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 11, 2004

Extra Measures for the Reconstruction of Herat Province

KABUL- At the instructions of H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan and President Elect, the following extra measures will be taken in support of the reconstruction work in Heart province:

1. The Ministry of Finance will allocate 3.5 Million Dollars to the Ministry of Water and Power in order to expand electricity in Herat. A team led by Mr.Ghulam Jailani Jaless, Deputy Minister of Water and Power in technical matters, will travel to Herat after Eid and take rapid action in this regard.

2. The Ministry of Finance will allocate 12 Million Afghanis to the Ministry of Mines and Industries to take action in utilizing the sabzak coal mine in the Herat province.

3. In response to the drought situation in districts of Herat, a delegation comprised of the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development, the Ministry of Irrigation, and the Ministry of Mines and Industries will travel to Herat to make a general survey on the water situation in Herat province and to take necessary action in this regard.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 6, 2004

President Chirac Congratulates President Karzai on his Victory in the Elections

KABUL- H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan and President Elect, received today a message from H.E. Jacques Chirac, President of the French Republic, congratulating him on his victory in the Afghan Elections.

"You have worked incessantly since two years to lead your country on the path of peace, reconstruction and reconciliation," President Chirac said in the message.

"Your massive victory demonstrates how much your fellow citizens have trust in you," President Chirac added.

The President thanks H.E. Jacques Chirac for his kind message and, on behalf of the Afghan people, expresses his gratitude to France for the support provided to the reconstruction of Afghanistan and the presidential elections.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 6, 2004

President Karzai Meets with President Musharraf

KABUL- H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of
Afghanistan and President Elect, met this afternoon with H.E. Parvez
Musharraf, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, who congratulated him and the Afghan people on the successful presidential elections.

"I have the special privilege to be the first Head of State to visit you after your election," President Musharraf said.

"The successful elections that took place in Afghanistan augur well not only for Afghanistan but for the entire region. Your success is Pakistan's success and we are together in whatever we are doing," President Musharraf said.

"Afghanistan and Pakistan are both sovereign nations and we respect the sovereignty of each other. We are on the path to a very successful and flourishing relationship between our two countries," President Musharraf said.

"There is already a tremendous cooperation going on between our countries while Pakistan provides Afghanistan with a link to the sea, Afghanistan links Pakistan to the Central Asia countries. I am glad that we are on the road to an interactive and most successful relationship with each other in the future," President Musharraf said.

"We are honored that you are visiting us and sharing with us the joy of the Afghan people. Thank you for being the first Head of State to visit us after the announcement of the election results. We are also grateful to Pakistan for the assistance provided to the elections to our refugees participating in the polls and in terms of securing the environment for the elections," the President said in the meeting.

The fight against terrorism, narcotics, trade, education and the will of
Pakistan to participate in the reconstruction of Afghanistan was also discussed during the meeting between the two presidents.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 6, 2004

President Karzai Meets Italian Deputy Prime Minister

KABUL- H.E. Hamid Karzai, President Elect of Afghanistan, met this morning with H.E. Jianfranco Fini, Deputy Prime Minister of Italy, at the Presidential Palace, Kabul, Afghanistan.

In the meeting, Mr. Fini congratulated the President on his victory in the elections and said that the peaceful process of elections has been important not only for Afghanistan but for the whole world, and that it showed the world that Afghans can have democracy and peace in their country.

The President thanked Mr. Fini and said that if not for the strong will of the Afghan people and the help of the international community, elections in Afghanistan would not have been possible.

The President and Mr.Fini also discussed narcotics, and both agreed to do more to fight this threat. "My first priority, even before fighting terrorism, is to fight narcotics in the future," the President said.

The President and Mr.Fini condemned the hostage taking of the three United Nations workers. "We will do our best to solve this issue and to bring back the hostages to their families as soon as possible" the President said.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 4, 2004

President Karzai Congratulates President Bush on Election Victory

KABUL- H.E. Hamid Karzai, President Elect of Afghanistan, congratulated in a message sent today H.E. George W. Bush on his re-election as the President of the United States of America.

"Afghanistan and the United States have been successful partners in defeating terrorism," the President said.

"I look forward to further building on this partnership to eliminate terrorism from Afghanistan and the region, and move forward towards building a stable, democratic and prosperous Afghanistan," The President added.

"The Afghan people are grateful for the support of the United States and for your personal commitment and dedication to our cause," The President said.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 4, 2004

President Bush Congratulates President Karzai in a Phone Call

KABUL- H.E. Hamid Karzai, President Elect of Afghanistan, received a phone call today from H.E. George W. Bush, President of the United States of America, congratulating him on his victory in the Afghan Elections.

President Bush congratulated the President and wished Afghanistan a prosperous and bright future.

"On behalf of the Afghan people, I would like to thank the Government and the people of the United States for their strong support in the past three years. Without their assistance and support, we wouldn't be where we stand today," the President said.

"The Afghan people are grateful for your personal commitment and dedication to our cause," the President added.

The President also congratulated President Bush on his re-election and expressed hope for further partnership to eliminate terrorism from Afghanistan and the region, and move forward towards building a stable, democratic and prosperous Afghanistan.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 4, 2004

His Excellency Hamid Karzai is the First Elected Afghan President

Kabul- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan would like to inform all Afghan Diplomatic and Consulate Missions abroad that His Excellency Hamid Karzai has been declared the winner of the first Afghan Presidential Elections.

H.E Hamid Karzai gained 55.4 percent of the total legal votes counted. The result was announced by the Joint Electoral Management Body (JEMB) at a ceremony yesterday in Kabul.

The result was welcomed by the United Nations, the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union.

Office of the Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kabul

Press Release

November 3, 2004

President Karzai Left Kabul for the United Arab Emirates

Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, left Kabul this afternoon for the United Arab Emirates to attend the funerals of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahayan, the late President of the United Arab Emirates who died yesterday evening.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 3, 2004

President Karzai Is Saddened by the Death of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahayan

Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, is saddened by the death of the President and founding father of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahayan, which occurred last evening. The President expresses his deepest condolences to the family of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahayan and to the people of the United Arab Emirates.

“His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahayan was a friend of Afghanistan and his efforts to help the Afghan people will always be remembered,” the President said this morning.

The Afghan people are grateful to the United Arab Emirates for their assistance to the reconstruction of Afghanistan.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 1, 2004

Prime Minister Blair calls President Karzai and Congratulates the Afghan People on the Successful Elections

KABUL - H.E. Hamid Karzai, the President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, received a phone call yesterday evening from H.E. Tony Blair, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, congratulating him and the Afghan people on the successful Presidential elections.   

The President said, “there were two things for the success of the Presidential elections, element one was the afghan nation proving once again their abilities in wanting freedom, second element is the international community, the afghan nation wouldn’t be able to do all this without the help of the international community, as individual state, we are grateful for that.  I hope that the political elements in Afghanistan can remain faithful to the enthusiasm of the afghan nation, and the world community stays committed to that."

The President expressed appreciations to Prime Minister Blair for his kindness towards the people of Afghanistan and thanked the United Kingdom for providing assistance to the Presidential elections and their continued support. 

The President and the Prime Minister also discussed the current hostage situation and the future fight against narcotics. 

President Karzai and Prime Minister Blair strongly condemned the hostage situation and the President said, “This war is against the Afghan nation and we know who will win."

Discussing narcotics, the President said: “The fight against narcotics will be my top priority in the future. We will make a cabinet level post for the Anti Narcotics Department and we will fight it like hell."

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 1, 2004

Prince Agha Khan Congratulates the President and the Afghan People on the Successful Presidential Elections

Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, received a phone call last night from His Majesty Prince Agha Khan, who congratulated the President and the Afghan people on the successful conduct of the presidential elections.

 Prince Agha Khan expressed his happiness to see the Afghan nation showing the world once again its commitment to peace and democracy.

“Without the will of the Afghan people and the strong support of the international community, the presidential elections would not have been as successful as they were,” the President said.

The President thanked H.E. Prince Agha Khan for his contribution to the reconstruction of Afghanistan.   

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

November 1, 2004

President Khatami Happy to See that the Afghan Elections Were Successfully Conducted

Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, received a phone call last night from H.E. Sayed Mohammad Khatami, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, who congratulated the President and the Afghan people on the successful conduct of the presidential elections.

President Khatami expressed his happiness to see that the Afghan elections were successfully conducted in the brotherly nation of Afghanistan.

“The success of the presidential elections in Afghanistan is due to the participation of millions of Afghans and the support of the international community,” the President said.

The President thanked President Khatami and expressed appreciation of the assistance provided for the elections by the brotherly nation of Iran to Afghans residing in Iran.  

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

October 31, 2004

President Karzai Thanks NATO and ISAF Forces for Their Assistance in the Elections

Kabul – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, met this morning with Mr. Hikmet Cetin, NATO Senior Civilian Representative for Afghanistan, General Jones, Supreme Commander of NATO and Jean Py, Commander of ISAF.

The good conduct of the elections, the fight against narcotics, parliamentary elections and the expansion of NATO forces under ISAF Command to the West of Afghanistan were discussed in the meeting.

“On behalf of the Afghan people, I would like to thank the NATO and ISAF forces for their assistance in providing a secure atmosphere to the elections,” the President said.

Discussing narcotics, the President said: “The fight against narcotics will be my top priority in the future. We will put all our means in the eradication, interdiction and destructions of labs, but we also need the support of the international community to provide alternative livelihoods to the farmers."

“We are happy to see positive changes in Afghanistan and to have witnessed the success of the elections,” General Jones said.

“The Afghan people showed to the entire world how Afghanistan can be a democratic and peaceful country,” General Jones added.

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press release

October 29, 2004

Afghanistan Strongly Condemns and Expresses Deep Dismay at the Abduction of UN Workers in Kabul

Kabul- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan strongly condemns and expresses deep dismay at the abduction of three UN electoral workers.

The Foreign Minister of Afghanistan H.E Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, expressed “deep regret when learned about the tragic incident”

“These coward acts, perpetrated by the terrorists and the enemies of Afghanistan will never shake the resolution the afghan people or discourage our partners in the international community from taking great strides towards stability and prosperity,” said Dr. Abdullah.

“The Afghan security forces with the help of the international peacekeeping forces will exert maximum effort to release the abducted UN workers and bring the kidnappers to justice” Dr. Abdullah added.

The three staff members, contracted by the United Nations Development Programme for the country's first-ever presidential elections earlier this month, were abducted from their UN vehicle by a group of armed men Thursday afternoon in Kabul.

Office of the Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kabul

Press release

October 28, 2004

Approval of Inter-Continental Five Star Hotel Project with capital of $50 Million

Kabul - In the High Commission on Investment (HCI) session dated October 27, 2004 at the Afghan Investment Support Agency (AISA); chaired by H.E. Sayed Mustafa Kazemi Minister of Commerce, Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan and Chairman of High Commission on Investment approved the Inter-Continental Five Star Hotel project proposal which would be constructed in a 8000 m2 space in the center of Kabul city.

In the HCI session the construction project of a new city (Naw-e-Kabul) in Pai Monar Deh Sabz, Kabul with an investment of USD 2 Billions by National Development Foundation (Bonyad-e-Enkeshafi-e-Milli) was also approved. To make this process more transparent and solve the legal problems a working group was assigned to draft a legal framework and propose it to the HCI.

The HCI also approved the project proposal of National Bank of Afghanistan (Bank-e-Millie Afghan) with a capital of AF 250 Millions.

Released by the Ministry of Commerce

Press Release

October 24, 2004

President Karzai Strongly Condemns Terrorist Incident in Kabul

KABUL - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, strongly condemns the terrorist attack which took place yesterday afternoon on Chicken Street in the Shar-e-Naw area of Kabul, causing the death of a twelve year old Afghan girl and a twenty-three year old American woman. The incident also left 5 others injured, including another ISAF soldier and a 13 year old girl who was selling newspapers on the street.

“This barbaric terrorist attack is the work of the enemies of Afghanistan, who are attacking innocent civilians and people who are there to help us with our security.  They are also the enemies of Islam because they disregard the sanctity of the month of Ramadan and carrying out their murderous activities,” the President said this morning.  

“The efforts of terrorists will be fruitless because the Afghan people are determined to continue on the path of reconstruction, democracy and stability,” the President added.

The President presents his condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a prompt recovery to the injured. The President has also instructed government bodies to provide all possible assistance to those affected.

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press release

October 11, 2004

President Karzai Meets Chancellor Schroeder

H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, met today at the Presidential Palace with the Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Mr.Gerhard Schroeder.

"I am happy to welcome you in Afghanistan a day and a half after the elections, an historical event that the Afghan people are still celebrating now," the President said to the German Chancellor.

"The Afghan people are grateful to the people of Germany for the massive contribution to the reconstruction of Afghanistan, from the organization of the Bonn conference to the contribution in the ISAF (International Security Assistance Force) and the assistance provided to the elections process," the President added.

"The Afghan elections have been a success and Afghanistan has made a great progress towards stability and democracy," Chancellor Schroeder said. "I am confident that further steps will follow," he added.

After their meeting, President Karzai and Chancellor Schroeder held a joint press conference in the Presidential Palace.

Later on, the President hosted a lunch in the honour of Chancellor Schroeder.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

September 21, 2004

11 Afghan prisoners released from Guantanamo Bay prison

Following the joint efforts of Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan and the United States of America, 11 Afghan prisoners were released from Guantanamo Bay prison.

These 11prisoners were handed over to Mr. Eng. Ibrahim, The Deputy National Security Advisor, National Directorate of Security (NDS) during his visit to Guantanamo Bay prison and were brought back home.

After their release, prisoners have shown their strong support for the peace building and reconstruction process of the country and have intended to take active part in it.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan  

Press Release

September 20, 2004

President Karzai Meets with Japanese Prime Minister, Thanks Japan for Assistance to Afghanistan and Support to Coalition against Terrorism

New York - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, met this afternoon with H.E. Junichero Koizumi, the Prime Minister of Japan.

The President briefed the Japanese Prime Minister on the progress of preparations for the forthcoming elections, and the security situation in Afghanistan. Referring to the accomplishments of the Transitional Government over the past three years, the President noted that “peace in Afghanistan was strongly in the interest of the entire region,” as is shown by the monumental increase in cross-border trade between Afghanistan and our neighbors over the past years.

Speaking of accomplishments, the President expressed his and the people of Afghanistan ’s sincere gratitude to Japan for its assistance to Afghanistan. “ Japan has been a steadfast supporter of Afghanistan, and we thank you for all that you have done for us,” said the President. More specifically, the President thanked Japan for providing support to the international coalition against terrorism in Afghanistan.

The President outlined the continuation of terrorist activities in the region, and the cultivation of poppy in Afghanistan, as challenges that still remained. However, the President emphasized, the Afghan people are determined to continue to rebuild their lives and move forward.

Prime Minister Koizumisaid he was very encouraged by the developments in Afghanistan, and believed that the Afghan people’s strong determination will lead Afghanistan to prosperity. The Prime Minister applauded President Karzai’s leadership in continuing to steer the country towards peace and prosperity despite the persistence of terrorist attacks.

Prime Minister Koizumi added that Japan, like several other nations, had done what it could, and he promised that Japan ’s support to Afghanistan will continue in the future. “ Japan ’s assistance has been focused on DDR [disarmament, demobilization and reintegration], education and infrastructure development. We will continue to provide support toward these goals."

The Prime Minister expressed hopes and best wishes for the Afghan people going to the polls. He added that Japan will send a team of election observers from the beginning of October for the elections.  

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan 

Press Release  

18 September 2004 

President Karzai Will Attend the 59th Session of the UN GA

Kabul - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, will leave tomorrow for New York to take part in the 59th session of the United Nations General Assembly which will be held September 21-24 2004. The President will address the UNGA on the first day of its session.

On the sidelines of the UNGA, the President will hold bilateral meetings with a number of world leaders, including H.E. Kofi Annan, the UN Secretary General, H.E. George Bush, President of the United States, H.E. Pervez Musharraf, President of Pakistan, H.E. Enrique Bolanos, President of Nicaragua, H.E. Junichero Koizumi, Prime Minister of Japan, H.E. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, H.E. Paul Martin, Prime Minister of Canada, H.E. Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, Prime Minister of Spain and Mrs Sadako Ogata, Special Representative of Japanese Prime Minister for Afghanistan.

On return to Kabul, the President will stop at Saudi Arabia and the Holy City Mecca to perform Umra. A group of Ulema will join the President from Kabul in Mecca for the rituals. During his stay in Suadi Arabia, the President will be meeting HRH Prince Abdullah, the Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

In addition to the above, during the month ahead, the President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, will have a brief visit to Berlin, Germany, to receive the prestigious award which is being given on every year on 3 October, German National Day.

Released by Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan 

Press Release  

Sept. 18, 2004  

Tripartite Commission 8th Meeting

Kabul and Islamabad – The Tripartite Commission, composed of senior military and diplomatic representatives from Afghanistan, Pakistan and the United States, held its eighth meeting in Kabul today.

The commission held an in-depth exchange of views on the security situation and recognized the existing cooperation among the commission members. They discussed ways and means to enhance tri-lateral cooperation for combating terrorism and improving communications.

The three sides strongly agreed upon the need to maintain security for the upcoming Afghanistan presidential election. Representatives from subcommittees on border posts and on military information exchange briefed the commission.

The Pakistani delegation briefed on the Pakistani government’s ongoing counterterrorist efforts. The commission recognized the key roles played by the Pakistani military, Afghan National Army and coalition forces in the ongoing challenge of clearing the border area of terrorist elements.

The Afghan delegation briefed on deployments and operations conducted to date by the Afghan National Army (ANA).

The U.S. delegation briefed Coalition plans to support the elections.

The Commission will meet again in late November 2004.

Lieutenant General Sher M Karimi, Chief of Operations, MOD, headed the delegation which included Dr. Nangialai Tarzi, Afghan AMB to Pakistan ; General Hilaluddin Hilal, Deputy Minister of Interior; and Dr. Quadir Amiryar, Director of Policy and Oversight, NSC. Director General For Military Operations Major-General Mohammad Yousaf headed the Pakistani delegation which included Brigadier Waheed Arshad, Director of Military Operations; Brigadier Syed Wajid Ali, Director Military Intelligence; and Mr. Faqir Syed Asif, MFA Director of Afghanistan. Lt. Gen. David W. Barno, commander of the Combined Forces Command – Afghanistan, led the U.S. delegation consisting of Brig. Gen. Charles Jacoby. Deputy Commanding General CJTF-76; Mr. Jon Aloisi, Political Advisor CFC-A; and Capt. Cole, ODRP U.S. Embassy, Islamabad.

Office of the Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kabul

Press Release

September 13, 2004

President Karzai Returns Home after Visit to Tajikistan for ECO Summit

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, returned to Kabul today afternoon from a one-day visit to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, where he attended the 8th Summit of ECO member countries, and held bilateral meetings with other leaders attending the summit. The President was accompanied on the visit by a high level government delegation including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Commerce, the National Security Advisor, and so on.

The Summit concluded the ECO conference of Eminent Persons and the Council of Foreign Ministers, which were held during previous days, and endorsed the Dushanbe Declaration of 14 September 2004.

The Dushanbe Declaration contains a section on Afghanistan which reviews the Plan of Action on participation of ECO member states in Afghanistan ’s reconstruction, including ECO’s financing of feasibility studies for priority projects in Afghanistan. The establishment of the ECO Special Fund for financing priority projects in Afghanistan was also emphasised.

Addressing the Summit, President Karzai noted Afghanistan’s increasingly important role in strengthening trade and economic integration in the region, which he stressed was one of ECO’s principal objectives. Urging all ECO member nations to do more to realise ECO’s objectives, the President emphasised the need for greater coordination of customs policies, removing of transit barriers and joining hands in the war against terrorism. The latter, the President said, was a threat to the region’s stability and, thus, to the economy.

The President highlighted Afghanistan’s place as a land-bridge linking countries of the region which, he believed, could be utilised towards great economic integration in the region. On behalf of the people of Afghanistan, the President thanked the ECO member states for their expression of support towards the reconstruction of Afghanistan.

In his bilateral meetings, the President met with President Imamali Rahmanov of the Republic of Tajkistan, President Sayed Mohammad Khattami of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and Prime Minsiter Shaukat Aziz of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

The President thanked President Rahmanov, and the people of Tajkistan, for hosting the ECO conference and extending tremendous hospitality to the visiting delegations. The building of bridges over Amu Darya, linking Afghanistan and Tajkistan, and closer trade ties between the two nations were discussed. With President Khattami, the President discussed the upcoming elections in Afghanistan and Iran ’s assistance to the reconstruction process. Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz thanked Afghanistan for the release, recently, of Pakistani prisoners that were captured fighting alongside the Taliban regime in late 2001 and held in Afghanistan’s prisons. Transit trade and the common fight against terrorism were also discussed.

The President also attended a trilateral meeting of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Tajkistan which focused on closer trade links among the three countries, especially in the area of electricity supply. It was decided that a trilateral working group, at ministerial level, be assigned to explore options further in this area.

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan 

Press Release

September 13, 2004  

President Karzai travels to Tajikistan for ECO Summit

KABUL– His Excellency President Karzai left on Monday 13 September for a visit to Tajikistan to attend the heads of state summit of ECO member countries. The summit will review and endorse discussions of the ECO conference and ECO council of Foreign Ministers on Tuesday 14 of September. ECO member countries are gathering in Dushanbe to discuss how the core objective of the organization, i.e. economic development in the region can be achieved. Participants include head of governments of Pakistan, Iran, Turkey and other Central Asian Republics.

President Karzai is traveling with a number of cabinet members including: the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Commerce and the Minister of Finance.

The President is looking forward to having a bilateral meeting with Mr. Rahmanov, President of Tajikistan on a range of issues including bilateral trade.

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan 

Press Release

September 13, 2004

President Karzai Expresses Concern about Attacks on UN Offices in Herat by a Mob of Demonstrators

KABUL - H.E. Hamid Karzai, the President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, expresses concern about incidents of violence involving demonstrators attacking the offices of the UN and the Independent Human Rights Commission in Herat

The President has instructed the attacks to be investigated. The President said, "Our people including the people of Herat have appreciation for what the UN is doing. This violence is not the work of people but of a law-breaking group of individuals who are against the people of Herat and against peace and security."

The Government of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan expresses support to the UN and AIHRC and is committed to take all necessary measures to ensure a safe and secure environment for their offices and staff.

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan 

Press Release 

September 11, 2004

Appointment of Mr. Mohammad Ismail Khan as Minister of Mines and Industries; Appointment of Mr Hakim Taniwal as Minister of Social and Labour Affairs; Appointment of New Governors for Herat and Ghor Provinces

KABUL - H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, has appointed Mr Haji Mohammad Ismail Khan as the new Minister of Mines and Industries. Endorsed by the National Security Council, the President’s decision to promote Mr Ismail Khan is based on the Government’s appreciation for the invaluable commitment and efforts he has put into his role as the Governor of Herat Province. Mr Khan’s extensive experiences, gained from the effective management of provincial affairs over the years, as well as his management skills, are useful assets that must be utilised at the national level.

In addition, the President appointed Dr. Hakim Taniwal, who has worked as Minister of Mines and Industries as the new Minister of Social and Labour Affairs of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan.

Through separate presidential decree, Sayed Mohammad Khairkhwa, Afghanistan’s ambassador in Ukraine and a well-known intellectual and Jihadi figure, was appointed as the new Governor of Herat Province.

Moreover, Dr. Mohammad Ibrahim Malekzada, the former Governor of Ghor, was appointed as advisor to the Ministry of Interior, while Mr. Abdul Qadir Alam was appointed as the new Governor of Ghor Province.

The President hopes that the noble people of Herat and Ghor Provinces, in light of their Islamic values and the country’s constitution, will take advantage of their rights and freedoms and strive to help strengthen our joint efforts to ensure security, reconstruction, the rule of law and national sovereignty.

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release  

September 10, 2004  

Afghan President condemns Indonesia blast  

KABUL - Afghan President Hamid Karzai condemned Thursday's deadly car bombing in the Indonesian capital and called for renewed international efforts against terrorism.   "This incident and those we have seen or heard of recently remind us that terrorism continues to pose a threat to the peace and prosperity of all nations in the world," Karzai said in a statement.   The Indonesia blast comes less than two weeks after a similar attack killed about 10 people in the Afghan capital, Kabul.   "It is imperative on all the countries in our region, and the international community at large, to step up the struggle against this menace until it is decisively defeated from the face of the earth," Karzai said.   " Afghanistan stands in firm solidarity with those countries that are affected by and fighting terrorism. We will play our full part in this fight."

Released by the Office of the Spokesperson to the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan 

Press Release

September 9, 2004

KABUL–Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, met this morning at the Presidential Palace with the French Minister of Defence, Mrs. Michèle Alliot-Marie, and the Belgian Minister of Defence, Mr. André Flahaut.

“The Afghan people are grateful to the French and Belgian people and their Governments, who are helping us to rebuild our country, and, especially, to have secure and free elections,” the President said at the meeting.

“Belgium is going to double the number of its troops in Afghanistan,” Mr. Flahaut announced at the meeting.

“This is a critical time for us and the world to be present here and to help the Afghan people to have a more prosperous future,” Mrs. Alliot-Marie said.

The President thanked Belgium and France for their contribution in the ISAF Forces under NATO command.

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Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan 

Press Release

September 8, 2004

President Karzai Condemns Russian Hostage Taking and Regrets the Tragic Ending

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, the President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, strongly condemns the hostage taking by a terrorist group in a local school in the town of Beslan, Southern Russia, involving mainly school children. The President is also deeply disturbed by the terrible loss of life as more than 200 people, most of them children, are reported to have been killed at the incident.

"This act of hostage taking represents terrorism in its worst form and at an appalling scale. I condemn this act and I am disturbed by its terrible consequences," said the President.

On behalf of the people of Afghanistan, the President extends his deepest condolences to the families of the children and adults who were killed and injured at Beslan school, and to the people of Russia.

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Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan 

Press Release

September 8, 2004

President Karzai Congratulates Shaukat Aziz as Pakistan’s New Prime Minister

KABUL- H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan congratulated H.E. Shaukat Aziz the newly appointed Prime Minister of Pakistan, in a telephone conversation today September 4, 2004

The President said: "On behalf of the people of Afghanistan, I extend my congratulations to you and the people of Pakistan on your appointment as the new Prime Minister of Pakistan."

The President also emphasised that maintaining and strengthening friendly relations and cooperation with Pakistan is a priority for the Government of Afghanistan. "We want a relationship that will contribute to stability and prosperity of both countries," the President added.

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Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

September 4, 2004

India Assures Afghanistan of Continued and Comprehensive Support

KABUL– His Excellency Dr. A. Abdullah returned to Kabul Saturday at the end of an official visit to India, where the Afghan delegation held substantive talks with members of the new ruling Government headed by H.E. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

During his stay in New Delhi, the Afghan Foreign Minister held bilateral talks with India’s new Foreign Minister, H.E. K. Natwar Singh, and National Security Advisor, J.N. Dixit.

Expressing satisfaction about his meetings in New Delhi, Dr. Abdullah said, “Indian leaders assured us of their strong support in all fields, and welcomed the progress made so far towards stability and security in Afghanistan since the ouster of the Taliban-Al Qaida outfit."

India has played a constructive role to support the political process initiated in Bonn in late 2001, and has so far allocated more than $400 million towards reconstruction efforts.

On Thursday, Dr. Abdullah called upon Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and conveyed the best wishes of H.E. President Hamid Karzai to him. He also thanked India for its comprehensive assistances in various fields, including infrastructure.

Indian leaders welcomed the preparations made so far for the upcoming presidential elections and stressed that Afghanistan’s progress on the path of democracy requires strong “national cohesion” and continued respect for “the spirit of national unity at all levels."

The two sides agreed that the world still faces dangers from remnants of terrorism and asked that all nations and governments redouble their efforts to defeat the twin evils of terrorism and narcotics.

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

September 4, 2004

Afghanistan Strongly Condemns Terrorist Acts in Russia and Expresses Sorrow over High Number of Casualties

KABUL– The Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan strongly condemns the heinous terrorist acts involving the taking of hostages at a secondary school in the town of Beslan and expresses its deepest sorrow and condolences to the people, the Government of the Russian Federation and to the families of the victims.

In a message conveyed to H.E. Sergey Lavrov, the Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, H.E. Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, The Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, expressed great sympathy and grief upon hearing the tragic news regarding the number of civilian casualties resulting from the terrorist acts on Friday.

H.E Dr. Abdullah in his message reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.

Office of the Spokesperson
Ministry of foreign Affairs, Kabul
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

August 30, 2004

President Karzai is Disturbed by the Explosion in Kabul City

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, is deeply disturbed by the explosion which occurred in Kabul city around 6:00pm today.

According to information from government’s security organizations, the explosion which occurred in front of the Kabul office of an international security company, killed at least seven people. Two Americans, three Nepalese and two Afghan nationals including a child have been confirmed dead.

The President has advised the government security organizations to undertake an immediate investigation into the explosion.

The President understands that as the people of Afghanistan move towards elections, the enemies of Afghanistan will expedite their efforts to harm the election process and threaten the people’s security and prosperity. However, Afghanistan will continue relentlessly on the path that the people of this country have chosen: the path of peace, prosperity and reconstruction.

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Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

August 30, 2004

President Karzai Welcomes Albanian President

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, welcomed this morning the President of Albania, H.E. Alfred Moisiu, and thanked Albania for the support provided to Afghanistan.

In a meeting at the Presidential Palace, the two leaders discussed the positive progress of the elections process as well as the accomplishments in the reconstruction sphere.

“We are honoured and grateful for your decision to send your sons from Albania to help Afghanistan. This will stay in the hearts of the Afghan people forever,” President Karzai said.

President Moisiu expressed pleasure at visiting Afghanistan.

“We wish from the bottom of our hearts that Afghanistan progresses and that the Afghan people see prosperity,” President Moisiu said.

“The Afghan people deserve to take the credit for the achievements we had so far. The Afghan people hope for a better future, and it is the duty of the Government to help them fulfil this hope,” President Karzai added.

Later, the President hosted a lunch in the honour of President Moisiu, which was attended by Senior Government officials and the visiting delegation.

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Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

August 30, 2004

President Karzai Saddened by Children’s Deaths in Paktia Province

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, is deeply saddened by the explosion yesterday evening in a school of Zormat District in Paktia Province, which caused the death of nine children and one adult.

The President has advised the relevant government authorities to investigate the causes and details of the incident.

“I present my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and I wish a prompt recovery to the injured,” the President said.

The President thanks the coalition forces for providing emergency medical assistance to the injured yesterday evening.

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Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

August 29, 2004

President Karzai Thanks Japan and Outgoing Japanese Ambassador

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, met yesterday afternoon with Mr. Kinichi Komano, the outgoing Japanese Ambassador in Afghanistan, and thanked him for the work he accomplished in Afghanistan.

“The Afghan people are grateful to the people and Government of Japan for their contribution to the reconstruction of Afghanistan, and especially for being active supporters of the D.D.R. process,” the President said.

In the meeting, the elections and the D.D.R. process were discussed and optimism was expressed regarding the positive progress of the elections process.

Mr. Komano reaffirmed the continued support of Japan towards the positive development of Afghanistan. He added that he has been appointed at the Foreign Ministry in Tokyo and that he will continue to focus on Afghanistan in his work.

The President, later yesterday, hosted a dinner at his residence in the honour of Mr. Kinichi Komano.

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Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

News Release

August 28, 2004

Afghan Delegation Heads to Uzbekistan

Kabul – At the invitation of the Government of Uzbekistan, a high level official delegation, headed by Foreign Minister Dr. A. Abdullah, will visit Tashkent from August 28 till 30.

The delegation comprised of Finance Minister Dr. Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai, National Security Adviser Dr. Zalmai Rassoul and the Minister of Public Works Gul Agha Sherzai, left Kabul on Saturday.

Upon departure, Dr. Abdullah said, “we attach great importance to our relations with Uzbekistan." He added, “we will discuss the current friendly status of the Afghan-Uzbek relations and potential areas for further cooperation between the two countries."

The two sides will hold talks Sunday on a wide range of bilateral issues, including regional security, anti-terrorism and anti- narcotics activities. Both countries are expected to sign protocols aimed at increasing the volume of trade and transit, facilitate private and state investment for reconstruction projects, and set up a joint consultation mechanism on economic and foreign policies.

Office of the Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

August 26, 2004

Afghanistan Expresses Sorrow for the Twin Russian Air Disasters

KABUL– The Government of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan expresses its sorrow following the separate tragic crash of two civilian airliners in the Russian Federation on Tuesday that resulted in the deaths of 89 people.

In a message relayed to H.E. Sergei Lavrov, the Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, H.E. Dr. A. Abdullah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims and the Russian Government.

Dr. Abdullah said, “the crash of the two airliners over Russian Federation territory on Tuesday is a sad event, and we hope that the investigations that are underway will shed light on the causes that led to such a tragedy."

Office of the Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kabul
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

August 12, 2004 

President Karzai Hails Participation of Afghanistan in the Olympic Games in Athens –

KABUL– H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, hails the participation of Afghanistan in the 28th Olympic Games, which will take place in Athens from 13 to 29 August.

“It makes me proud to see that, after the obscure days of the past, Afghanistan can now participate in the greatest celebration in the world. It is especially important because women will be part of the Afghan team for the first time in History,” the President said.

The five athletes representing Afghanistan in the Olympic Games will compete in Martial Arts, wrestling and other athletic events.

The President understands that the Olympic Games are an opportunity for the Afghan people to show that they share the common vision of promoting peace and friendship with the entire world.

The President congratulates the International Olympic Committee for organizing the event and the Greek Government for hosting the Games.

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Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

August 11, 2004

President Karzai Meets U.S. Secretary of Defence, Donald Rumsfeld

KABUL – H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, met this afternoon with the United States Secretary of Defence, Donald Rumsfeld.

In the meeting, Secretary Rumsfeld noted the positive progress in Afghanistan since his last visit and hailed the good results achieved in the voter registration for the forthcoming elections.

The President thanked the United States for the support provided to the reconstruction of Afghanistan, especially regarding the electoral process and the building-up of the National Army.

The President also briefed the Secretary on the preparations for the elections. Optimism was expressed about the elections process and the prospects for holding free and fair elections in Afghanistan in the near future.

In a joint press conference after the meeting, the following points were discussed:

• The Afghan people are extremely enthusiastic and determined to have democracy working in their country. This is expressed by the outstanding level of participation by the people in the electoral process throughout the country, despite the continued efforts of terrorists who try to disrupt the process.

“It is clear that the Afghan people are winning the struggle to rebuild their country for a bright future,” Secretary Rumsfeld said.

“Let’s hope that the elections will be as free and fair as it is humanely possible to do in Afghanistan ,” the President said.

• Efforts are being made by the Government of Afghanistan together with our friends in the international community to address the concerns relating to the security of the elections. It has to be clarified that multiple registrations will have no impact on the results of the elections. Voters will receive an ink mark, which will stay for several days and will prevent them from voting multiple times even if they received multiple registration cards.

• Narcotics continue to be an issue in Afghanistan. The Government together with the international community is committed to tackle with this issue with a specified plan. The international community has a stake in fighting this menace.

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Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan

Press Release

October 11, 2003

The Launch of the Disarmament, Demobilizations & Reintegration Program

KABUL – The Head of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai, has approved the launching of the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program on 24 October 2003 in Kunduz.  This will mark the commencement of the extended DDR pilot program incorporating Kunduz, Gardiz, Mazar-i-Sharif and Kabul. In each location one thousand ex-combatants will participate in the process. The main phase of the program will begin shortly after the pilot phase.  

The program aims to demobilize 100,000 officers and soldiers from the Afghan Military Forces currently under the auspices of the Ministry of Defense.  This will help pave the way for the creation of the Afghan National Army, as stated in the decree of December 2, 2002.  With the signing of the DDR Operational Directive by the Ministry of Defense and UNAMA, the groundwork has now been prepared to begin the process. DDR program is financially supported by Japan, UK, Canada and the US. It is estimated that the complete process will take 3 years.

The DDR program will be carried out by the Afghanistan's New Beginnings Program (ANBP) -- Aghaz Naw -- a joint government and UN entity supported by the Disarmament Commission and the Demobilization and Reintegration Commission. The Disarmament Commission is lead by the Ministry of Defense through the new department of policy and strategy.  It will help reorganize the existing Afghan Military Force units and prepare them for weapons collection and decommissioning. The Demobilization and Reintegration Commission is chaired by Vice- President, Karim Khalili, and has thirteen ministries as members.  Together with ANBP they will produce a reintegration strategy that will provide jobs for the demobilized soldiers within the exiting National Development Framework.

Reintegration opportunities have been identified for the officers and soldiers demobilized in the pilot phase. Opportunities available will include vocational training, wage labor works, de-mining, agricultural opportunities and other options.    
 
The Head of the Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan calls upon the nation to support this essential process which is instrumental in achieving peace and national security.

Office of the Spokesperson of the President
Transitional Islamic State of Afghanistan