The international community has welcomed the signing of the National Unity Government agreement by presidential candidates Abdullah Abdullah and Ashraf Ghani-Ahmadzai which took place at the Presidential Palace on Sunday.
The event took place with the participation of President Hamid Karzai, political figures, government official and members of both candidates’ teams.
Soon after the ceremony, the White House, in a press release, applauded the agreement, stating that that the agreement will contribute to enhancing national unity and stability in Afghanistan.
"Signing this political agreement helps bring closure to Afghanistan's political crisis, and restores confidence in the way forward. We support this agreement and stand ready to work with the next administration to ensure its success," the statement read. "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," it added.
The United Nations, too, welcomed the agreement, calling it “an important step to move the country towards a period of stability.”
“The uncertainty of the past months has taken a heavy toll on Afghanistan’s security, economy and governance,” the UN special envoy for for Afghanistan, Ján Kubiš, said. “For the sake of the country it is time to quickly implement the agreement on a government of national unity. The United Nations remains committed to supporting a new government in Afghanistan.”
Additionally, the NATO Secretary Gen. Anders Fogh Rasmussen, welcomed the signing of the agreement, urging the candidates "to take their responsibilities forward in the spirit of genuine political partnership.” Ramussen stressed that NATO will continue to support Afghanistan's stability, sovereignty and unity.
“I look forward to the 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 necessary security agreements with the United States and NATO as soon as possible, as both candidates pledged in their joint message to the NATO Summit in Wales. This is key for the stability of Afghanistan and the continued support of the international community,” Rasmussen said in a statement.
The government of Pakistan has also showed its support for the agreement.
“The government and the people of Pakistan welcome the agreement signed by the two presidential candidates in Afghanistan regarding the establishment of a government of national unity," Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in a statement.
“Consistent with our support for a peaceful democratic transition, we regard the signing of this agreement as a positive development. This outcome has been possible due to the wise and sagacious leadership of Dr. Ashraf Ghani and Dr. Abdullah Abdullah,” the statement read.
Only few hours after being signed, the National Unity Government agreement has received positive responses regionally and internationally.