President Karzai Meets UK Chief of Defense Staff
June 23, 2010  

President Hamid Karzai on Wednesday met with David Richards, the UK Chief of Army Staff in the Presidential Palace and discussed issues of mutual interest including the ongoing war on terrorism.
It was urged that a sufficiently capable Afghan Security Forces, well trained and well equipped is a key precondition for a successful anti terror war, for which continued UK support to Afghan forces remained essential.
The President termed “very important” the UK role in improving security in southern Helmand province and thanked UK for the sacrifices its troops are making in providing a safer environment for Helmand residents.
Stressing on further enhancement of bilateral relations, the President expressed his gratitude for all the contributions and help UK has been providing to security and reconstruction in Afghanistan.
Gen. David Richards reassured President Karzai of his country’s continued military and civilian commitment and support to Afghanistan and added that his government is placing on its priority the efforts to train and equip ANSF.