Gen. Petraeus accompanies Khowst Provincial Governor on peace district visit

KHOWST PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN

06.02.2011

Story by Staff Sgt. John Zumer 

3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division

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 Governor 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 had come to Khowst earlier in the day for meetings at Forward Operating Base Salerno that included an operational update and later battlefield circulation with leadership from the 3rd BCT, 1st Infantry Division, TF Duke.

The villagers of Jaji Maidan were receptive to what Petraeus had to say as he visited a local school and met with village officials, especially his comments on 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,” he added.

• Date Taken: 06.02.2011
• Date Posted: 06.05.2011 01:56
• Story ID: 71600
• Location: KHOWST PROVINCE, AF