For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 2, 2002
Statement by the Press Secretary
The President is concerned about reports from Afghanistan that
innocent lives were lost in the conduct of joint U.S.-Afghan
military operations in Oruzgan Province today. We do not yet know what
exactly happened and we are working very hard to find out. A joint
U.S.-Afghan investigation team arrived in Oruzgan today and has
already begun their fact-finding mission. Their findings will
result in a comprehensive report.
On behalf of the American people, the President extends his deep
condolences for the loss of innocent life no matter what the cause
is determined to be. In the meantime, we are consulting with Afghan
authorities on the humanitarian needs of the people in the area.
The Afghan people have played a critical role in our joint war
against terrorism. The United States greatly appreciate their support in
this vital struggle. Working together, our nations have made important
progress in defeating terrorism and we have given Afghanistan the
hope of a better tomorrow. The United States is committed to helping
Afghanistan's new government ensure that the country is never again
a haven for terror. We are actively supporting Afghanistan's efforts
to provide for its own security and to rebuild after decades of war
and oppression. The United States is determined to work in partnership
with Afghanistan to see these efforts through in the months and
years ahead.
###
|