WASHINGTON - Vice President Mike Pence and Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah on Friday discussed the current political situation in Afghanistan.
After the meeting The White House said: “They focused on president Trump’s South Asia policy and its beneficial impact on the security situation in Afghanistan.”
Pence commended the Afghan security forces for their bravery and sacrifices in battling the insurgency and international terrorists, such as ISIS and Al- Qaeda.
He stressed the need for Kabul’s continued engagement and progress on necessary reforms, political inclusion and preparations for forthcoming elections -- all critical to providing greater stability and opportunities for Afghanistan.
“Vice President Pence and Dr Abdullah reaffirmed the enduring partnership between the United States and Afghanistan,” the White House said in a statement.
It was the first high-level meeting between leaders of the two countries at the White House since August when President Donald Trump unveiled his new South Asia strategy.
“They focused on president Trump’s South Asia policy and its beneficial impact on the security situation in Afghanistan.”
During the meeting in the historic Roosevelt Room of the White House, Pence also commended Abdullah's partnership with President Ashraf Ghani.
Meanwhile, ITV quoted Chief Abdullah as saying that terrorist sanctuaries in the neighbourhood still posed a big problem for Afghanistan. He hoped that Pakistan would help eliminate the safe havens on its soil.
Abdullah has met top officials of the Trump administration over the last few days, including Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and National Security Advisor HR McMaster. (Pajhwok)