---

------------------------------------------------------------------------

14-15 March 2009, Dubai

In the name of God, the most merciful and compassionate

Verily, never will Allah change the condition of people unless they

Chang it themselves (013,011)

Afghanistan faces a dangerous and challenging time. Our people long for security, economic empowerment and political stability. While these goals seemed within reach in the years immediately after the fall of the Taliban, the progress we have made is being seriously threatened today. Some voices around the world are saying that we Afghans are not capable of building an effective state, that we are not ready to pursue a democratic order, or that we are not prepared to join the modern world. We reject these fallacies, but they are a clear sign that the world is beginning to lose patience with us. The situation is serious and we must acknowledge our shortcomings, seek to learn lessons, and respond promptly and appropriately. ...Continued...