Good morning.

Minister Hakimi, ladies and gentlemen…

I am honored to be here today. The agreements we have just signed follow on the pledge that the United States made at the recently concluded donors’ conference in Brussels, a pledge to stand together with Afghanistan!

Through these agreements, the United States provides almost 800 million U.S. dollars ($791.16 million total) in assistance to the National Unity Government to advance sustainable development. These agreements demonstrate the enduring U.S. government commitment to support the people of Afghanistan and to promote peace, prosperity, good governance, and human rights for all Afghans.

They outline our future programs in health, education, women’s rights, good governance and economic growth, working together with the government of Afghanistan to create jobs, increase agricultural production, promote opportunities for the advancement of women and girls, and improve access to quality schools, medical care and government services. We have a strong partnership, and we are proud of our joint achievements.

Afghanistan’s leaders are committed to providing a better future for their country, achieving self-reliance, and holding themselves accountable for their policies and actions.

I look forward to working with you, Minister Hakimi, to achieve our shared vision for a self-sustaining Afghanistan.