29 January 2002

Congressional Report: Helms Welcomes Karzai

Senator Jesse Helms (R-NC) January 29 praised Hamid Karzai, Chairman of the Interim Administration of Afghanistan, for his recent leadership. At the same time, Senator Helms expressed his concern over the financial situation in Afghanistan and the desire to use the aid from the United States in a wise and effective manner.

The ranking minority member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee welcomed Chairman Karzai, at a meeting of the committee, with these words:

"Mr. Karzai, welcome. I am certain that you recall a day, nearly 18 months ago, when you appeared before this Committee. You were kind enough to testify for us on the question: 'The Taliban: Engagement or Confrontation?' Happily, that question is now answered, and I congratulate you and the people of Afghanistan.

"Unfortunately," Helms said, "the road ahead is not a smooth one, and victory is not yet completely ours. I am profoundly troubled by persistent reports of challenges to your authority from inside and outside Afghanistan. Iran, in particular, is an enemy we know well.

"In addition --- and I know you will forgive me for being frank --- I worry about the desperate desire on the part of some to throw money at the problem. Afghanistan needs a sustained financial commitment, and Secretary Powell made clear that the commitment is there. However, the money must be wisely spent. It cannot serve to sustain the ethnic rivalries and internecine warfare that has plagued your country for centuries."

Sen. Helms told Karzai: "I commend you for your courage and leadership. Please know that for as long as you remain an ally to the United States, you will be able to count on the American people for the support your nation needs."