London Conference Finishes a Success

London, January 29, 2010 (VOA): 
The international conference in London that brought together delegates from countries in support of Afghan development concluded successfully on the 28th of January.

Contributions of more than $140 million were pledged by attendees to support the government’s plan to reach out to those who have been exploited by poverty and other circumstances and forced to fight as part of the insurgency.

President Hamid Karzai said he will call a peace council of elders - and invite members of the Taliban - to discuss reconciliation in Afghanistan. 

His Excellency urged the international community to support the effort and called for Saudi Arabia and Pakistan to help guide a peace process. President Karzai’s initiatives towards peace were hailed by those in attendance.