Foreign Minister in Kabul for political talks

The Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jonas Gahr Støre, has arrived in Kabul for political talks following the Afghan presidential election and before the inauguration of a new government.

“I will have talks with the Afghan authorities, including President Karzai. In the light of our extensive involvement in Afghanistan, we wish to engage with leading Afghan and international representatives at an early stage,” said Mr Støre.

During his visit, Mr Støre plans to meet President Karzai, Foreign Minister Spanta, President of the lower house of the national assembly Qanooni, the main challenger in the presidential election Abdullah Abdullah, ISAF Commander McChrystal, and representatives of civil society.

“Afghanistan needs effective, legitimate and inclusive Afghan leadership. This necessitates better coordination of the international actors, and better follow-up and implementation on the part of the Afghan authorities. 

“We look forward to constructive cooperation with the new Afghan Government, but we will also set clear requirements with regard to performance. It is especially important to see results in the fight against corruption and organised crime. We also expect higher priority to be given to human rights and particularly women’s rights,” said Mr Støre.

Norway is in Afghanistan together with NATO allies to promote stability, security and development at the request of the UN Security Council and the Afghan authorities. Norway is one of the largest contributors in terms of civilian reconstruction and is providing some NOK 750 million in 2009. The main focus areas are education, good governance and rural development.

Press contact in connection with the visit: Head of Information Bjørn Jahnsen: +47 971 64 843.

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See photos taken during the visit in Kabul. Pictures can be used freely and credited MFA, Oslo/Marte Kopstad.

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