Clinton discusses Afghanistan with allies

The US Secretary of State, Hillary R Clinton, Tuesday discussed the current situation in Afghanistan and the way forward with the British Foreign Secretary, David Miliband, and the German Foreign Minister, Walter Steinmeier.

This was Clinton’s the first meeting with her British and French counterparts after she became the Secretary of State. The meeting comes at a time when the Obama Administration is reviewing the US policy in Afghanistan.

“I’m particularly grateful for the work that they do in Afghanistan, and we’re going to be working closely together in the weeks and months ahead along with our other NATO allies to enhance our support for the people of Afghanistan,” Clinton said after meeting Miliband.

Miliband said the two leaders talked about Afghanistan and Pakistan, the new approach that the new Administration is doing in particular the appointment of Richard Holbrooke, as the Special US Representative for Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Talking to reporters after meeting her German counterpart, Clinton said: “I conveyed to the Foreign Minister this afternoon our deep appreciation for everything Germany has done for the people of Afghanistan and for its continued commitment to this important effort.”

As US President Barack Obama has made quite clear, Clinton said: “We need our closest allies, like Germany, to help us ensure the success and stability of the Afghanistan nation at this very important moment.”

The Secretary of State said they talked about the range of needs that Afghanistan has.

“Our government is undergoing a policy review with respect to our policy on Afghanistan. Our Special Representative Ambassador Richard Holbrooke will be in the region next week, and then we will discuss with our friends about what we all can do together,” she said.

She appreciated German leader’s constructive advice about what is possible and how they can ensure that the approach toward Afghanistan will be as unified and constructive as they can make it.