"This week the president has made a strong case that the conditions are right for us to complete our combat mission in Afghanistan and maintain a strong strategic partnership with the Afghan people in the years ahead. Our combat forces will leave Afghanistan in much better shape than when we first arrived. Al Qaeda no longer has safe haven there, and nearly all Afghanistan is free of Taliban oppression. Millions of Afghan children -- including girls -- are in school; economic, social and health indicators are all much stronger; and the Afghan people are in the midst of a lively and successful democratic election campaign. The Afghan army we have helped train and equip is an effective force capable of maintaining security over most of the country. Our troops, working alongside the Afghans and our international partners, have accomplished a great deal, and they and the American people deserve to feel a sense of accomplishment. Their sacrifices have made a major contribution to our national security, and to the security and future of the Afghan people."
Editor's Note: President Obama spoke about Afghanistan, American leadership and other international issues in his May 28, 2014, speech at the West Point graduation. Click here for a video of the speech.
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