Saturday, April 05, 2014

ISAF Chief Salutes Afghan Forces for Securing Elections



American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 5, 2014 – The commander of the International Security Assistance Force congratulated the people of Afghanistan on their historic election, and he also saluted the Afghan security forces for their efforts to make the elections happen, according to an ISAF news release issued today.

“The people of Afghanistan can be proud of their security forces. For months, they’ve conducted planning and security operations to ensure that the conditions were set for inclusive elections,” said Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., ISAF commander.

As the world watched, Afghan National Security Forces provided the opportunity for the Afghan people to choose their new president, securing over 6,200 polling centers across the country, the release said.

Soldiers and policemen confidently patrolled the cities and countryside to protect innocent civilians and prevent insurgents from disrupting today’s elections, the release said, and Afghan voters displayed confidence in their army and police, turning out in unprecedented numbers to cast their ballot for the future of Afghanistan.

“What we saw today as a result of that effort was extraordinary,” Dunford said in the release. “In addition to their physical performance, what equally impresses me is the sense of responsibility and determination they had in ensuring the Afghan people had a secure environment in which to vote and determine their own future.

“ISAF stands committed to continuing the strong partnership with our Afghan brothers and sisters,” the general continued. “We have forged this relationship for more than a decade, and the ANSF achievements today are enormous; their brave and heroic actions demonstrate their dedication to a secure, stable and unified Afghanistan.”

Today’s success clearly demonstrates that the Afghan people have chosen their future of progress and opportunity, the release said.

No comments: