Pelosi, Congressional Delegation Conclude Visit to Afghanistan - pelosi.house.gov

Tel Aviv, Israel – A Congressional Delegation led by Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi returned from Afghanistan after a two-day visit.  Leader Pelosi released the following statement:

“Upon arrival in Afghanistan, our delegation traveled to Task Force Southeast-Advisory Platform Lightning under the command of Brigadier General David M. Hamilton.  The visit provided the opportunity to engage directly with our servicemembers on the front line executing the priority U.S. mission of training and advising Afghan security forces.  The delegation thanked these men and women for their dedication and selfless service.  While there, the delegation also met with senior Afghan military partners.

“In Kabul, General John W. Nicholson, Jr., Commander, Resolute Support Mission and U.S. Forces Afghanistan, and other senior military leaders briefed the delegation on the U.S. military train, advise and assist mission across Afghanistan.  Our discussions with U.S. military leaders on the ground and U.S. Embassy Country Team officials made it clear that a military effort alone will not achieve the desired conditions and objectives in Afghanistan.  A comprehensive regional approach, focused on diplomacy, economic development and increasing the capacity of the Afghan security services, is critical to achieving the conditions for a secure and stable Afghanistan, and the safe return of U.S. troops. 

“Another highlight of the visit was the opportunity to meet with Afghans leading the way to empower women and girls, advance human and journalist rights, educate and empower youth and advance entrepreneurship and public-private partnerships.  We were inspired by these young leaders and by their determination to shape a better future for the Afghan people. 

“Today, the delegation met with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah at the Presidential Palace.  During the meeting, the delegation underscored the importance of including women in reconciliation talks with the Taliban, the urgency of reducing corruption and the imperative of moving forward with free and fair parliamentary and presidential elections.  President Ghani expressed gratitude for development assistance and was especially appreciative of the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform.

“Our meetings confirmed that Afghanistan has come a long way with the support of the U.S. and other international partners but formidable challenges remain.

“Our five days of meetings with high-level officials, civic leaders and young people in the Middle East and South Asia focused on advancing our national security, countering terrorism and narcotics, promoting economic and social development and advancing regional peace.  Our discussions were enriched by the participation of each member of our high-level Congressional delegation.” - Read More

Pelosi, Congressional Delegation Conclude Visit to Afghanistan