Readout of the President's Video Conference with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani

Today, the President spoke with President Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan by video conference, along with his Chief Executive Officer Dr. Abdullah. The President again commended the President and Dr. Abdullah on their political agreement, reaffirmed U.S. commitment to support the unity government, and congratulated the two leaders for a productive first month for the new government. The Presidents discussed strengthening the Afghan National Security Forces to improve the security situation in Afghanistan, American and regional support for an Afghan-led peace process, and near-term Afghan budgetary reform and longer-term fiscal sustainability. The President also reiterated his offer for President Ghani and CEO Abdullah to visit the White House early in the new year.