US respects Afghan sovereignty: Kerry

WASHINGTON (PAN has made inspiring progress across many sectors, creating a better life for its citizens, US Secretary of State John Kerry said, greeting the Afghans on their country’s Independence Day.

Sending the Afghans best wishes on behalf of President, Barack Obama, Kerry said on Sunday he had been to Afghanistan many times and had seen firsthand the enduring partnership between the two countries, which was founded on mutual respect and common interests.

“I have seen the people of Afghanistan work to build a peaceful, prosperous and unified nation that respects the rights of women,” he said, adding the US was committed to supporting efforts to achieve the goal.

There had been inspiring progress across Afghanistan in many sectors, including health, women’s rights, trade and commerce, Kerry noted. 

During the past year alone, he said, the Afghan people had taken significant steps to prepare for the coming security and political transitions, from the milestone event on June 18 that marked Afghan forces taking the lead for security to the new electoral laws that set the stage for the 2014 polls. 

“At the same time, Afghans continue to build their economy by working toward WTO accession, attracting private sector investment and developing their natural resources,” Kerry said, adding that the progress was creating a better life for all Afghans. 

“As you celebrate your independence, the US shares your commitment to a strong and sovereign Afghanistan where Afghans enjoy security, peace, prosperity and dignity for generations to come,” Kerry concluded.

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