London conference on Afghanistan opens with call for shared responsibility

The British foreign secretary, Philip Hammond, has urged the government and people of Afghanistan to utilise the support of international donors wisely as the country seeks to forge a new chapter in its history.

Speaking at the opening of the London conference on Afghanistan, Hammond said he anticipated wholesale political, social and economic change in Afghanistan over the next 10 years, but emphasised the need for collective responsibility.

“We meet at a time when Afghanistan is entering a new chapter in its history, the start of a transformation decade, where it will take the lead in managing its own development and security,” said Hammond, adding that much remained to be done.

“Today we must reaffirm that commitment to support the Afghan people as they develop their economy, realise their rights and connect with their region. But there are two sides to the commitment: the Afghan people and government … must demonstrate to the taxpayers of donor countries that their assistance is being used wisely.”

The London Conference comes at a pivotal moment for Afghanistan. The withdrawal of most Nato troops has triggered soul-searching about the achievements of a 13-year military mission that cost billions of dollars and thousands of lives, including those of 2,210 American and 453 British soldiers, as well as at least 21,000 Afghan civilians.  Read More at Guardian