A number of elders spoke in detail about the security situation in Helmand and explained the causes of its insecurity.

They asked President Karzai to take decisive action against the enemies of Afghanistan who kill religious scholars and burn schools, and not to allow Afghans to suffer any longer at the hands of terrorists.

The group emphasized the consolidation of security and stability in the country, calling the role of the people important to ensuring security and expressing their strong support for the Afghan National Army and Police.

The people of Nawzad District also asked the President to implement reforms in the local administration and to solve people’s environmental problems.

President Karzai expressed delight at meeting the community elders of Helmand, saying, “I want to assure you that the Government will do its utmost to improve the security situation in the province of Helmand.  Ensuring the security of the people of Afghanistan is the duty of the Government of Afghanistan and we will spare no efforts to achieve this.”