KABUL - While Afghanistan continues to face significant challenges in areas such as human rights and protection, the country has realized strong political and development gains, according to the top UN envoy in the country.

In his recent year-end briefing to the Security Council, Ján Kubiš stressed the need for a sustained partnership between Afghanistan and the international community as the country undergoes a period of transition.
The majority of foreign forces in Afghanistan are set to withdraw by the end of 2014 when the country assumes full national sovereignty. (Agencies)