Pompeo Addresses Geneva Conference, as Germans Withdraw Troops from Kunduz Province

Mike Pompeo, US secretary addressed to Geneva conference on Tuesday saying that the United States remains committed to an enduring partnership with Afghanistan, and to help Afghan peace negotiations.

“The start of the Afghan Peace Negotiations in Doha has opened a new and unprecedented opportunity set for peace and prosperity,” Pompeo said, “So too must all our all countries and organizations help to maintain and advance gains achieved since 2001.”

The gains Afghanistan is adherence to are the rule of law; respect for its international obligations; and inclusive, transparent, and accountable governance.

“We must also emphasize the importance of respect for the rights of all Afghans, including women, youth, and minority groups,” Pompeo said.

Pompeo added, the government should do its part to implement important elements of stability and security.

“I’m talking about things like economic reforms; real anti-corruption efforts, including our drug interdiction; respect for human rights, including religious freedom; a welcome environment for the private sector; and steps toward self-reliance,” he said.

He said the US is looking to international partners, especially the neighboring countries of Afghanistan to help and support the country towards a peaceful and sustainable future.

International Donors’ Pledge To Afghanistan includes of EU 1.4 billion $, U.K 828 Million $, Japan 720 million$, Canada 260 million $, The Netherlands 220 million $, Australia 144 million $, Turkey 75 million $, Norway 70 million $, Denmark 75 million $, France 104 million $, Czech 6.6 million $, Ireland 10 million $, Indonesia 5 million $, Luxembourg 2.9 million $, Italy 35 million $, South Korea 35 million $, ADB Asian Development Bank 900 million $, USA 600 million $, and Germany 512 million $.

The International donors up to now have pledged a total of $13 billion in support to Afghanistan.

This comes as Germany started reducing troops in Kunduz province of Afghanistan redeploying the 100 stationed troops in the region.

The troops will be flown from a large German base in Mazar-e-Sharif if the German military advisors were needed.

Germany currently has 1200, stationed in Afghanistan, making it the second-largest military contingent after American troops.

Reuters report, Germany is waiting for what number of troops the U.S is intending to pull out and which locations be affected, based on which they will update their policies.