US President Barack Obama's nominee to be ambassador to Kabul, Lieutenant General Karl Eikenberry, offered a brief message to Afghanistan's people on Thursday: "Your success is our success."
"It's evident to me, after having the privilege of serving in your country, that you share with Americans an overwhelming desire to live in peace, with dignity," he said during testimony to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
His words came as Obama was poised to unveil on Friday his new strategy for turning the tide in Afghanistan, where the Taliban Islamist militia has clawed back ground after being routed in late 2001.
"With our support, you'll further develop accountable governance, a patriotic army and police that serves to protect you, for access to health care and education and employment opportunities to provide for the livelihoods of your families," said Eikenberry.
"When you achieve your goals, international terrorists will find no refuge inside of Afghanistan. And this is precisely where your interest, America's interest, and indeed the interest of the entire world, come together. Your success is our success," he said.
Eikenberry faces no public opposition and could be confirmed as early as next week.
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