Watch VOA’s Special Report below on U.S. President Barack Obama’s announcement of his new strategy for Afghanistan.
During his speech, President Obama explained the purpose of more troops is to break the Taliban’s momentum in the country and help lay the foundation for transitioning command from the coalition to Afghan security forces.
Mr. Obama also sought to reassure Afghans that the United States has no interest in taking over their country. He said America seeks to isolate those who destroy and strengthen those who build in Afghanistan. Watch my story below to see how Afghans reacted to the U.S. president:
Mr. Obama also had a message for the Afghan government: The time for writing “blank checks” is over. U.S. officials have long warned Afghan President Hamid Karzai that he must address government corruption during his new five-year term. The day before President Obama’s announcement, Afghan lawmaker Daud Sultanzoi told me that he thought the new U.S. strategy is premature.
Mr. Obama also promised that the United States will not abandon the region. He said that ultimately, America wants to be a partner with Afghanistan and not a patron.
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