Jean Asselborn, Discours à l'occasion de la conférence internationale sur l'Afghanistan, Kaboul

First of all, I would like to say how pleased I am that today’s conference is taking place in Kabul. The fact that more than 70 delegations have come together here today underscores the international community’s unwavering commitment to make a success story out of Afghanistan.

Allow me to stress that the international community acts in Afghanistan under a UN mandate and therefore has a clear and well-defined mission to establish peace and stability in Afghanistan in order to build a prosperous future for the Afghan people. The international community did not invade Afghanistan, but instead is here to assist the Afghan nation in establishing viable institutions, based on the rule of law, human rights and on principles of good governance. A stable and prosperous Afghanistan is crucial for the regional stability.

Moreover, the presence of the international community in Afghanistan is foremost intended to lead the battle against religious extremism. As my colleague, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed al Nahyan, mentioned earlier, the fight against al-Qaeda is a fight for the common and shared values of the Muslim world and Al-Qaeda is not representative of these values.

Chairmen,
Dear Colleagues,

Luxembourg has been committed to work towards a safe, stable, democratic and prosperous environment for the Afghans from the outset, and we intend to stand by the Afghans in the coming years. On the basis of its "3D" approach, Luxembourg has contributed, in addition to its participation in ISAF, a total amount of about 40 million Euros between 2000 and 2010.

Finally, I would like to commend the efforts made by the Special Representative of the UN’s Seceretary General, Mr Staffan de Mistura and the rest of the UNAMA team, who support the people and the Government of Afghanistan in their quest for peace, security and stability.

Thank you for your attention.