Afghanistan: Security and State-Building

Ambassador William Taylor, State Department Coordinator for Afghanistan, gave the keynote address, followed by the first panel. Ambassador Taylor warned that Afghanistan is only a potential success story. The coalition is engaged in three major efforts: demilitarization, eradication of poppies, and preparing for elections in September. The elections are of the first priority. The Taliban is working to make the elections fail. The training of the military and police is part of providing election security but they must be supported by the coalition. He also reported on the new election law. After his remarks he had time to answer a few questions submitted by members of the audience. The panel titled “Security, State-Building and Economy” was moderated by Dr. Marvin Weinbaum, of the Middle East Institute. The panelists addressed questions including whether the U.S. has achieved its stated objectives in Afghanistan. close