ISAF commander, Khowst Gov. visit peace district

KHOWST PROVINCE, Afghanistan – U.S. Army Gen. David Petraeus, commander of International Security Assistance Force and U.S. Forces Afghanistan, visited Jaji Maidan, Khowst Province, Afghanistan, June 2.

Greeted by hundreds of flag-waving residents and a marching band, Petraeus was joined on the visit by Khowst Provincial Gov. Abdul Jabaar Naeemi and U.S. Army Col. Chris Toner, commander of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Task Force Duke and a native of Topeka, Kan.

Petraeus came to Khowst earlier in the day for meetings at Forward Operating Base Salerno that included an operational update and a battlefield circulation with leadership from the 3rd BCT, 1st Inf. Div., TF Duke.

Petraeus spoke to villagers of Jaji Maidan at local school about the need for Afghans to take the lead on matters relating to economic development and security.

“We share President Karzai’s desire to have Afghans securing Afghans,” said Petraeus.

Gains made against insurgents require continued vigilance, however, said Petraeus, citing the need to continue working together for progress that has brought improved schools, roads and economic development in eastern Afghanistan and across the country.   

“The progress in recent months has been particularly impressive, and it’s very important that we maintain our calm and determination so that we achieve our objectives,” said Petraeus.

Those shared objectives of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and coalition forces, namely improved governance and a safer, secure and more prosperous Afghanistan will hopefully be improved based on the positive impact of the visit, said one resident.

“It’s a good event, good for our district, and hopefully it will bring good things to our people,” said Abdul Wadood, a Jaji Maidan resident. “I’m very happy.”