ISAF Chief Hails Agreement for Afghanistan Unity Government

DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2014 - The commander of NATO and U.S. forces in Afghanistan today congratulated Afghanistan's presidential candidates on their agreement to form a government of national unity.

"On behalf of the men and women of the International Security Assistance Force, I wish to congratulate President-elect Dr. Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai, Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, and the people of Afghanistan in reaching this very important milestone," Army Gen. John F. Campbell said in a statement.

Campbell also offered congratulations to Afghanistan's national security forces, noting their "enormous" achievements through two elections and protracted political uncertainty. "Their brave and heroic actions demonstrate their dedication to a secure, stable and unified Afghanistan," the general said. "Without their efforts and sacrifice, the opportunity to conduct a peaceful political transition would not have been possible."

Earlier, White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest issued a statement applauding the candidates for putting Afghanistan's interests first.

"Reaching this agreement required difficult choices, partnership and compromise on the part of both candidates, and the outcome of their talks prioritizes the recognized needs of the Afghan nation ahead of politics or individual power," he said.