The following is attributable to Acting Spokesperson Clayton M. McCleskey:

U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Mark Green met Wednesday with the Chief Executive Officer for the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, to discuss USAID's civilian assistance programs in Afghanistan, and the on-going implementation of the Administration's broader South Asia strategy. Administrator Green reaffirmed USAID's partnership with the people of Afghanistan to invest in their secure and prosperous future.

Administrator Green underscored his support for the Government of Afghanistan's efforts to address corruption, and enhance the accountability of Afghan institutions. The Administrator also reiterated the U.S. Government's commitment to working with Afghans to enable private sector-led growth, and decrease their country's dependence on international assistance.