Washington DC - Congressman Howard L. Berman, Ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on President Barack Obama’s speech on a the way forward in Afghanistan.
“I’m pleased President Obama announced this evening that he is beginning the process of bringing our troops home. However, the President will not be able achieve his goal of preventing Afghanistan from once again becoming a safe haven for al Qaeda unless we secure greater cooperation from Pakistan to deny sanctuary to the very terrorist groups who are attacking our troops and threatening our national security. Without such a commitment from Pakistan, the courageous efforts of our troops, diplomats, and allies serving in the region - no matter the troop level - to stabilize the country and successfully transition control will be difficult if not impossible.".
