Governance, Growth and Development in Afghanistan

In late March 2009, after consultations with the governments of Afghanistan and Pakistan, President Barack Obama presented his comprehensive strategy for dealing with remaining security and development challenges in Afghanistan and Pakistan. While part of the strategy focused on increasing U.S. troop numbers and expanding the Afghan army and police to deal with security threats, a large part focused on building the capacity of Afghan state institutions, strengthening the economy and improving aid efficiency for development projects.

On May 5, the Brookings Institution hosted His Excellency President Hamid Karzai for a discussion of the Afghan perspective on a new strategy for governance, institution-building and economic development in light of the upcoming presidential election in Afghanistan.

Brookings Vice President and Director for Foreign Policy Carlos Pascual offered introductory remarks. Saban Center Senior Fellow Bruce Riedel moderated the discussion. After his remarks, President Karzai took audience questions.