H.E. Dr. Abdullah Abdullah today met with the Secretary General of the United Nations Mr. Ban Ki Moon. In the meeting U.N. Secretary General Moon was accompanied by Mr. Kai Eide, U.N. Special Representative for Afghanistan.

At the outset, the Secretary General Moon shed light on the impressive and constructive campaign led by Dr. Abdullah during the Presidential election campaign. He referred to Dr. Abdullah’s decision on non-participation in the second-round of the elections and noted that the outcome of the elections would have to be decided by Afghan authorities and in accordance with Afghanistan’s constitution. Secretary General Moon stressed that the international community expected Dr. Abdullah to emerge out of the elections as a strong and influential Afghan national leader and contribute to Afghanistan reconstruction process in the way forward. He also stressed that influential figures in the country had to work together and help Afghanistan make further strides towards its transition towards a democratic society.

On his part, Dr. Abdullah conveyed his condolences for the loss of five U.N. staff during the recent attack on the UNAMA guesthouse and conveyed the appreciation of the people of Afghanistan for the United Nations’ continued assistance for Afghanistan’s stabilization efforts. Dr. Abdullah also discussed issues related to the Afghan Presidential elections as well as developments that have taken place during the past several weeks.

Regarding his decision of non-participation in the second round of elections, he referred to yesterday’s speech to the nation in which he outlined a variety of reasons why the decision was made. Dr. Abdullah also noted that his decision was taken “for the sake of Afghanistan’s best interest and national unity.” Additionally, he stressed that he remained resolute in his commitment to continue to support Afghanistan’s rebuilding effort in any capacity.

Furthermore, he stressed on the serious challenges and complications that was prevalent in the Afghan election process. He talked about the importance of future Afghan election processes and institutions being capable and credible. Appropriate reforms in various sectors would help to improve the situation in the country and preserve the Afghan people’s faith and confidence in their partnership with the international community, and their transition towards a democratic and civil society.

He also indicated that the Afghan people are looking forward for continued cooperation and partnership with the international partners. “We are confident that we will achieve our goals in bringing security, stability and prosperity to Afghanistan and the region”.

The U.N. Secretary General was on a brief visit to Kabul.