US, Italy discuss Afghan combat mission

WASHINGTON (PAN by the end of 2014.

“We both reaffirmed our commitment to make sure that when we end combat activities in Afghanistan at the end of 2014,” Obama told reporters in a joint media briefing with the Italian Prime Minister.          

“We are in a position to leave behind an Afghanistan that has a strong professional security service and a government that is meeting its obligations to all its people, including all ethnic groups and women and others who have started to see greater opportunities and greater freedoms over the past several years,” he said referring to the progress made in Afghanistan.

Obama said he and Letta had a chance to talk about Afghanistan.  “Italian troops have been extraordinary in their sacrifice and their efforts in helping to create an Afghanistan that is secure and safe for the Afghan people.  We very much appreciate it,” he said.  

Thanking Obama’s appreciation of Italian contribution in Afghanistan, Letta said their joint commitment is very important for the stabilization of the area.

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