BackAfghan President to make first US visit in March
Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and CEO Abdullah Abdullah to meet Barack Obama in Washington on 24 March
Premium(Reuters)
Washington: US President Barack Obama will meet new Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and chief executive officer (CEO) Abdullah Abdullah in Washington on 24 March, the White House said on Saturday.
This would be the first US visit of the new Afghan President after taking over from his predecessor Hamid Karzai last year. Obama will host Ghani, Abdullah, and key members of their unity government for meetings and a working lunch at the White House.
“The two presidents will discuss a range of issues including security, economic development, and US support to the Afghan-led reconciliation process," White House press secretary Josh Earnest told reporters. This marks the first meeting between the two Presidents at the White House following the 2014 presidential election, which produced the first democratic transfer of power in Afghanistan’s history, he added.
While in Washington from 22-25 March, Ghani and his delegation will also engage in a high-level strategic dialogue hosted by secretary of state John Kerry at Camp David. “Ghani’s visit highlights the importance of continuing bilateral cooperation and the American commitment to our US-Afghanistan Strategic Partnership to reinforce regional security and sustain the achievements of the last 13 years," Earnest said.
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!
