LOC17:28
14:28 GMT
WASHINGTON, Sept. 21 (KUNA) -- The United States applauds presidential candidates Abdullah Abdullah and Ashraf Ghani for signing an agreement on the formation of an Afghan government of national unity, White House press secretary Josh Earnest said on Sunday.
"Signing this political agreement helps bring closure to Afghanistan's political crisis, and restores confidence in the way forward," Earnest said in a statement released by the White House.
"We support this agreement and stand ready to work with the next administration to ensure its success."
As the two Afghan candidates recognized in their August 8 Joint Declaration, the people of Afghanistan deserve an effective and legitimate government to realize a better future for their country, Earnest said.
"Millions of Afghans braved insecurity and threats to vote for Dr. Abdullah and Dr. Ghani, and this agreement respects the Afghan people's collective determination," the statement said.
"Reaching this agreement required difficult choices, partnership and compromise on the part of both candidates, and the outcome of their talks prioritizes the recognized needs of the Afghan nation ahead of politics or individual power."
The agreement marks an important opportunity for unity and increased stability in Afghanistan, he said.
"We continue to call on all Afghans -- including political, religious and civil society leaders -- to support this agreement and to come together in calling for cooperation and calm," it said.
Respect for the democratic process is the only viable path for Afghanistan to continue its progress toward a secure and stable future, and ensure the continued support of the United States and the international community, Earnest said.
"We look forward to resolution of the electoral process with the announcement of the election outcome, the inauguration of a new President and appointment of a Chief Executive, and the conclusion of the Bilateral Security Agreement and NATO Status Of Forces Agreement that will enable and reinforce our strategic partnership and our commitment to support a future of stability for Afghanistan," he said. (end)
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