The President of the United States of America Hon. Barack H. Obama called H.E. Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, after the results of the first round of the Afghan President Elections were announced by the Afghan Independent Election Commission. The confirmed results called for a runoff election between the top two candidates, H.E. Dr. Abdullah and President Hamid Karzai.

U.S. President Barack Obama commended Dr. Abdullah for the leadership that he illustrated during and after the electoral process as the results of the Presidential Elections were being investigated by the Electoral Complaints Commission and the Afghan Independent Election Commission. President Obama expressed appreciation for the spirit and responsibility he showed throughout the process and indicated that this would help to move Afghanistan forward on the right path in reaching its national goals. President Obama also stated that he would like to continue to stay in touch with Dr. Abdullah as the United States is reviewing its overall strategy and plans to continue its commitment and support for Afghanistan.

In his own remarks, Dr. Abdullah conveyed the gratitude of the Afghan people for the continued support that the United States has been providing for the ongoing effort in Afghanistan. He provided his assurance that he would render all efforts in ensuring that Afghanistan, the United States and the international community, achieve their shared objectives and goals – of bring security, stability and prosperity to Afghanistan and the region. Dr. Abdullah mentioned the importance of Afghanistan capitalizing on a historic opportunity during which the international community is supporting Afghanistan. Dr. Abdullah also expressed appreciation for the helpful role that U.S. Ambassador Karl E. Eikenberry, Senator John F. Kerry and Mr. Kai Eide conducted in the announcement of the results.

Dr. Abdullah indicated that he would initiate a forward looking approach which would benefit the people of Afghanistan. He also mentioned that it was important for Afghanistan to move forward towards achieving national goals in partnership with the international community.