Thank you, President Trachtenberg for that kind introduction, and for hosting us here at George Washington University.
President Karzai, thank you for visiting the United States, and for coming here to Washington.
I am a great admirer of all you have accomplished for your people, both before you became President and since becoming the leader of a great and proud nation.
As President Bush said this morning, you've got a tough job. But you are truly a man of great strength and character. And we are proud to call you ally and friend.
Aspirations of the Afghan People You have devoted yourself to the noble task of rebuilding Afghanistan so that your people can live peaceful, prosperous lives.
Under the Taliban, a normal life was next to impossible. Having enough to eat, raising children in safety and security, getting a good education, having the right to vote and choose leaders, exercising women's rights--all these basic human, democratic rights were denied the Afghani people.
Yet, all people aspire to have these rights.
And with the help of wise leaders like you, and with friends who are committed to your success, the desires of the Afghan people are becoming a reality.
There is no doubt that there are challenges, and there have been setbacks.
Still, much progress has been made. And that gives us hope.
Creating the Foundations for Success: Political Reform The foundation of any successful country rests on creating a civil society based on the will of the people, and providing the infrastructure for an economy to grow. Afghanistan has made great strides on both.
Still, Afghanistan has made real progress in developing its infrastructure and providing for its people: Social Front All of this activity is putting Afghans to work. It allows communities to flourish and businesses to grow.
The United States is committed to Afghanistan's long-term success. It is a commitment that goes beyond partisanship and beyond politics.
Those of you who want to strengthen the Afghan economy by doing business, or want to help us enhance the economic relationship should know that the United States is your long-term partner. We are dedicated to Afghanistan's success.
Commerce Department Commitment When I last visited with you on my trip to Afghanistan in February, I was impressed by your commitment to a strong market economy.
On behalf of the Administration, I promised you we would take concrete steps to help lift Afghan exports.
For centuries, Afghanistan has been famous for the quality of rugs and textiles, for your delicious and savory fruits and nuts, and for your wonderful, rich marble.
These three key export markets seemed like a good place to start our efforts through the Afghanistan Investment and Reconstruction Task Force at the Commerce Department.
Already we are seeing results: Commerce Department also: The desire of your people for peace, and their commitment to stability after so many years of strife, is truly inspiring.
With your help and with the partnership of the Afghan people I know we can succeed together.
Thank you.
Salaam Alaikum! [Peace be upon you.]
Source: U.S. Department of Commerce
