KABUL - The Governments of the United States and Afghanistan began a joint review of U.S. Government civilian assistance to Afghanistan in Kabul on May 14, 2019.  U.S. State Department Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Alice Wells, H.E. Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah, and Acting Minister of Finance Qayoumi launched the review.  In-depth sectoral reviews will be conducted at the end of May.
 The joint review, requested by President Ashraf Ghani and supported by the United States, focuses on strategic results, alignment with National Unity Government development priorities, and identification of challenges and successes.  The joint review will support greater prioritization of U.S. civilian assistance in Afghanistan, strengthened Afghan institutions, and Afghan self-reliance. The Governments of the United States and Afghanistan agree that U.S. civilian assistance should continue to support the Afghan people and advance Afghan self-reliance. 
 The United States, in coordination with the Government of Afghanistan, provides civilian assistance across a range of sectors including health, education, economic growth, energy, infrastructure, humanitarian assistance, and cultural heritage preservation.  The U.S. investment in Afghanistan builds on the efforts of the international community to support Afghan prosperity.  
The United States and Afghanistan look forward to continuing our close partnership and working together to promote the journey to Afghan self-reliance. (PR)