Press Release (2004)001 5 Jan. 2004

Statement by NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer on the adoption of the new constitution in Afghanistan Background NATO in Afghanistan Links ISAF website I very much welcome the positive outcome of the Loya Jirga in Afghanistan this weekend. Afghanistan has ratified a new constitution that will lay the ground for the creation of democratic institutions and opens the way for free and fair national elections this year. I congratulate the Afghan people on the adoption of this constitution that will serve as the basis for reconstruction and national reconciliation. This new constitution marks significant progress towards a free and prosperous future and it is an achievement of all Afghans. I would like to thank the soldiers serving in ISAF for their professionalism and dedication in contributing to the security of Kabul throughout the process of ratification of the new constitution by the Loya Jirga. NATO will remain committed to helping Afghanistan on its way to stability and security.

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