National Day of Afghanistan

Address by the Minister of Defence at luncheon to mark the occasion of the National Day of Afghanistan

Mr. Ambassador, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen.

First of all I would like to congratulate Ambassador Ludin and the Afghan people on the occasion of the Afghan National Day, which was on the 19th of August. It is an honour and a privilege for me to greet you all here today.

Both in my capacity as Minister of Defence and personally, Afghanistan and its people have come to mean a great deal to me. I frequently visit Afghanistan to meet the Norwegian troops, to get a first hand impression of the situation – and also to meet my colleagues in the Afghan government.

The ties between the Norwegian Government and Afghan authorities have probably never been better. During my meeting with President Karzai last year and in my frequent meetings with Defence Minister Wardak – I have been met with genuine warmth and hospitality. I am also very pleased to have the opportunity to get to know you better, Ambassador Ludin. Your strong commitment to developing the close relationship between our two countries is already taking effect. I look forward to cooperating closely with you and the Embassy in the future.

Through the eyes of the media one could be lead to believe that Afghanistan is all about war, conflict and devastation. The situation in Afghanistan clearly is very difficult, but I have experienced that Afghanistan is so much more than conflict. Each time I visit Afghanistan I am overwhelmed by the spectacular landscape and the beautiful scenery. But most of all I have been moved and impressed by its people. After going through three decades of civil war – despite the hardship and suffering they may have sustained – the people of Afghanistan have kept their pride and dignity. This reminds me of something Khaled Hosseini wrote in his excellent book set in Afghanistan, The Kite Runner: “War doesn't negate decency. It demands it, even more than in times of peace.”

During my visits I also clearly see progress and development in Afghanistan. New schools (for both boys and girls), new hospitals and roads are being constructed. An increasing part of the population is gaining access to clean water. The most important factor is the fact that Afghanistan now has a democratically elected central government.

I also believe that we have made considerable progress in establishing a united multiethnic Afghan Army under democratic control. During my two last visits I have inspected the Headquarters of the 209th Corps of the Afghan Army – west of Mazar e Sharif. I observed an enthusiasm and professionalism in the 209th that impressed me and made me optimistic about the future of the Afghan armed forces.             

The Norwegian government have stressed the need for a stronger “Afghanisation” of our efforts in Afghanistan. The international community must support the Afghan authorities in building Afghan capacity.

Within my field of responsibility we see increased “Afghanisation” through a close cooperation between Norwegian and Afghan forces. Today Norwegian and Afghan soldiers and officers are carrying out operations shoulder to shoulder in Meymaneh, in Mazar e Sharif and in Kabul.                                                                                                       

Establishing credible and professional armed forces is one of the keys to creating a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan – because without security there cannot be development. But at the same time it is equally important to stress that without development there will not be long term security. The Norwegian government is therefore working hard to coordinate our civilian and military efforts into a truly comprehensive approach.

Mr. Ambassador: I would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm that the Norwegian government remains committed to a comprehensive and long-term support of Afghanistan and Afghan authorities. Norway will continue to be a strong and active contributor in your efforts to create a stable and prosperous Afghanistan.

Let me once more congratulate all Afghans here today on the occasion of your National day – and say that I am already looking forward to another visit to Afghanistan in the autumn.

Thank you.