Ban Ki-Moon: Afghanistan a key priority for UN in 2009

Secretary General of the United Nations

Ban Ki-moon (L) and Afghan President Hamid Karzai hold a joint press

conference in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, Feb. 4, 2009. Secretary

General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon Wednesday morning arrived in

Kabul for talks with Afghan President Hamid Karzai. (Chinese media/Zabi

Tamanna)
Photo

Gallery

KABUL, Feb. 4 (Chinese media) -- The United Nations

Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon's surprise visit to Kabul and his meeting with

Afghan President Hamid Karzai repeated the world body's firm support to the

war-ravaged country.

Ban Ki-Moon described the current year in Afghanistan

as challenging by saying, "It is clear that Afghanistan will continue to face

many challenges in 2009."

However, Ban stressed that "for the United Nations,

Afghanistan remains a key priority in 2009."

He emphasized on enhancing international efforts in

the rebuilding process of Afghanistan and bringing peace and development in this

country.

"We must bring tangible changes in the lives of Afghans," the world body's chief noted.

Secretary General of the United Nations

Ban Ki-moon addresses a press conference in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan,

Feb. 4, 2009. Secretary General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon

Wednesday morning arrived in Kabul for talks with Afghan President Hamid

Karzai. (Chinese media/Zabi Tamanna)
Photo

Gallery

Ban, who earlier exchanged views with President Hamid Karzai on the security situation and upcoming presidential elections in Afghanistan, also repeated UN's firm support to Afghanistan by adding, "Again I assure you the full support and cooperation and commitment of the United Nations."

"I am here to demonstrate and convey my strong

commitment and support for peace, stability and development of Afghan people,"

he said.

The visit of UN chief took place amid increasing

security incidents and deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan where the

U.S. and its allied nations have called for boosting military strength.

UN Secretary General pays surprise visit to

Afghanistan

KABUL, Feb. 4 (Chinese media) -- Secretary General of United

Nations Ban Ki-moon Wednesday morning arrived in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan,

for talks with Afghan President Hamid Karzai and commanders of international

troops, said a UN statement issued here.

"The Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban

Ki-moon arrived in Kabul today, to underscore the priority the UN is placing on

its work in Afghanistan," the statement said. Full story