Security in Afghanistan and the region, the progress of reconstruction, the tribal Jirgas on both sides of the Durand line, and the fight against corruption and narcotics were discussed.

Mr. Boucher expressed support for the Afghan Government’s efforts to work with tribes on both sides of the Afghan-Pakistan border, saying, “The Jirgas between the elders of both sides of the Durand Line will bring peace and security to the region.”

He praised the efforts by Afghanistan’s Chief Justice and Attorney General in the fight against corruption.

Mr. Boucher reiterated the U.S.’s commitment in assisting Afghanistan’s peace, reconstruction, economic prosperity, fight against narcotics and corruption, and development of an effective national army and police.

President Karzai thanked Mr. Boucher for the assistance of the government and people of the United States to the security and reconstruction of Afghanistan.  The President on the topic of corruption and narcotics stated, “The Afghan Government is using its full capacity to fight this menace so that by next year we can expect a considerable reduction in poppy cultivation.  However, to do this, we need the international community’s involvement to help establish an appropriate program for alternative livelihoods for our farmers.”

“Fighting corruption is one of Afghanistan’s top priorities,” President Karzai added.  “That is why I have given the Chief Justice and Attorney General the full authority to root out corruption from government departments.”

The President also explained the steps Afghanistan was taking for the preparation of the Jirga’s between the elders of both sides of the Durand line and noted the importance of the participation of the United Nations and the United States as observers in the Jirgas.