By: Swedish Lieutenant Karin Eriksson
JOWZJAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan - During an official ceremony at the governor’s office in Jowzjan Jan. 28, International Security Assistance Force leaders handed over security responsibility to Afghan leaders in the district Shebregan.
The symbolic handover ceremony was marked by the raising of the Afghan flag in a military ceremony with members of Afghan National Security Forces and ISAF. Dr. Ashraf Ghani, head of the Transition Coordination Commission, said it was a historic day for Afghanistan.
Provincial Reconstruction Team MES was represented by Deputy Commander Lt. Col. Joni Lindeman and Swedish Ambassador Henrik Landerholm.
“I want to congratulate the Afghan Security Forces today for assuming the lead security authority in Shebreghan,” Landerholm said in his speech.
He said he is looking forward to continued cooperation with all Afghan authorities in the coming years to ensure conditions remain stable and Afghan citizens benefit from better services and living conditions.
The Turkish ambassador also held a speech at the ceremony.