The Secretary of State of the United States of American, Madame Hillary R. Clinton called H.E. Dr. Abdullah to discuss the current situation in Afghanistan. Dr. Abdullah conveyed the gratitude of the Afghan people for the continued support that the United States has been providing for the ongoing reconstruction process in Afghanistan. Secretary Clinton also praised the impressive campaign that Dr. Abdullah ran during the elections and commented on how the Afghan people showed great patience in awaiting the outcome of the election results.

Dr. Abdullah discussed issues related to the Afghan Presidential elections as well as the developments that have taken place during the past several weeks. He added that the people of Afghanistan courageously went to the polls, despite security challenges, in an effort to choose their own political destiny. He added that despite problems with the elections, the Afghan people are confident that the ongoing audit and recount process would help to preserve elections and that they were anxiously awaiting the results to be announced by the Electoral Complaints Commission and the Afghan Independent Election Commission. Secretary Clinton expressed gratitude for Dr. Abdullah’s leadership in asking the people of Afghanistan to show patience and calm and to have confidence in the international mechanisms (Electoral Complaints Commission) which would determine the results of the elections.

Secretary Clinton also mentioned that the United States is currently reviewing an overall strategy on Afghanistan and plans to continue its support for Afghanistan. Dr. Abdullah extended his appreciation for the United States support and indicated that U.S. renewed support would help the Afghan people to make further strides towards their goal of achieving security, stability and prosperity. Dr. Abdullah mentioned that it was important for Afghanistan to move forward towards achieving national goals in partnership with the international community.

U.S. Secretary of State Madame Clinton stated that she would like to continue to stay in touch with Dr. Abdullah as the United States continues to provide support to Afghanistan.