Different countries that have deployed their military forces in Afghanistan have set different dates of withdrawal from Afghanistan. However, by the end of 2014 all security responsibilities of Afghanistan will be transferred to its own security forces and the US-led NATO troops will withdraw leaving behind a small number of US forces whose role will not be combat but supporting the ANSF.

People and the government of Afghanistan view the ANSF as strong defenders of their country who will stand with courage and bravery against the insurgents who are expected to intensify their operations in the coming years.

From the statements of high authorities belonging to the NATO member countries, one can easily judge that Afghanistan will not be left alone and contribution to promote peace, security, reconstruction and development will persist even beyond 2014.

In the Bonn, Chicago and Tokyo summits, the international community committed to continue supporting Afghanistan until this country attains political and economic stability.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan has entered into strategic partnership agreements with a number of politically, financially and militarily strong countries. Afghans have always welcomed the international community's support aimed at securing their life and putting their country on the path to prosperity. Also, the people of Afghanistan hope the international efforts will continue for a long run until Afghanistan stands on its own feet.

The way the Afghan government and the international community are trying to manage the situation at a crucial juncture where Afghanistan stands today, has created optimism among Afghan populace. A recent survey conducted by Asia Foundation titled, "Afghanistan in 2012: A Survey of the Afghan People," found public opinion to be the most optimistic since the annual survey began in 2004.

Fifty-two percent of 6,300 respondents felt that the country was moving in the right direction, compared to 46% in 2011. Improvements in security and reconstruction were the most cited reasons for the improved outlook. People's exhibition of optimism, despite the countless challenges facing them, is encouraging.

All the international community needs to do is to remain committed to its promises to the Afghan people. A country ruined in decades cannot be rebuilt and stabilized over nights. Western engagement in Afghanistan must not end with the withdrawal of their troops. Afghanistan needs international community's support to continue moving towards better security, stable economic condition and strong democratic values in it.