U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton today conducted a rountable discussion with Afghan civil society leaders at U.S. embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan.
“I just want to welcome all of you here and to thank both Ambassador Crocker and Ambassador Cunningham for welcoming us this morning. I know that for each of you, what you are doing today to contribute to a peaceful, stable, prosperous Afghanistan is a life’s work; it is a commitment of such deep meaning to you.” -Ms. Clinton
Ms. Clinton said she wants to be sure that as they move forward together, she has the benefit of their views, their concerns, and that they know they’re being heard at the highest levels of the American Government.
She cited that she has met some of the civil society leaders before, particularly the women, with whom she has working now for a decade. She said the changes that she has seen in Afghanistan are very encouraging, but she said they must be made permanent. She said it can only happen if there is a consensus within the country about what kind of future you are seeking.
“And therefore, this discussion, from my perspective, is really important. And so I thank you for coming, and I think now we’ll excuse the press and we’ll have a chance to hear from each.” -Ms. Clinton
