Wednesday, July 27, 2011 – Continuation of violence by Taliban militants despite handover of security to Afghan forces would mean they are looking for presence of foreign troops in Afghanistan, Afghan President Hamid Karzai said on Tuesday.
While speaking during a ceremony celebrating the first phase of security transition to Afghan forces, President Karzai hailed successful completion of the first phase and described it as a big achievement.
President Karzai one again called on Afghan security organizations to break political affiliations and avoid serving political parties.
Mr. Karzai also said, Afghan security forces have grown strong enough to undertake security responsibilities.
He said, “In the fight against terrorism and other enemies of Afghanistan, we can do better without causing civilian casualties, we could do it with the support of our people and we have the ability.”
He also called on Taliban militants to put an end to violence after the security transition process is completed.
Mr. Karzai said, there is no reason for the Taliban to continue attacking their own land and their people under the pretext of fighting against Nato and US troops after Afghans take the lead from the foreign forces.
He said, “If the Taliban still continue their attacks, it would mean they want Nato and the US to extend their presence here.”
He also said, anti-government armed groups are well aware that Afghanistan preserves its independence despite challenges.
Mr. Karzai said, “despite all problems and threats facing our nation, we have protected our independence with dignity under our waving flag.”
In the meantime as security transition has begun from foreign forces to Afghan forces which is due to be completed by 2014 and all foreign forces will the country, Mr. Karzai pledged that Afghanistan would be able to pay its own armed forces and police.
