On September 6, President Karzai and NATO Secretary-General Jaap De Hoop Scheffer signed a long-term partnership agreement called “Declaration of Agreement and Partnership between NATO and Afghanistan” in the Salam Khana Palace in Kabul.

Prior to the signing ceremony, President Karzai met with the NATO Secretary-General and the Ambassadors of NATO countries and discussed issues on the war on terror, Afghanistan’s reconstruction, the rebuilding of its institutions, and NATO’s role in Afghanistan. 

At a joint press conference, President Karzai thanked NATO for its contributions to Afghanistan’s reconstruction, security, and fight against terrorism and said, “This agreement is not only important in terms of military and police training, but is of great importance in further promoting Afghanistan’s status in the international community.”

The President expressed hope that the agreement will enable Afghanistan to address terrorism with greater strength and help the country stand on its own feet.

Applauding President Karzai for his efforts in peace and development, Secretary-General Scheffer said, “NATO has a long-term commitment to Afghanistan.  We will not tire and will never stop helping Afghanistan.”

The Secretary-General emphasized that Afghanistan has achieved a great deal and its institutions are growing stronger, but the country’s enemies try to overshadow the progress being made.