KABUL - Congratulating the nation on the eve of the Nawroz festival, President Hamid Karzai on Thursday urged the Afghans to go to polling stations and cast their votes in the historic elections slated for April 5.

“God willing, our people will participate in the presidential and provincial council elections in the first month of new year. They will go to the polling stations and cast votes for candidates of their choice.”

Karzai said the Afghans would once again have successful elections like they have had in the past 10 years. The people of Afghanistan would take concrete steps towards strengthening peace and stability, he believed.

Karzai called on all eligible voters to fulfill their national responsibility by going to polling stations and voting for their preferred candidates.

The president also urged the Afghans to plant at least one sapling as part of efforts to protect the environment this spring.

Karzai hoped the New Year would pass off peacefully and would bring along happiness and achievements to the country.

Meanwhile, President Karzai inspected the venue of the New Year celebrations in the Paghman district, where foreign delegates are expected to arrive.

The president went through all sections of the venue consisting a building with the capacity to house 1000 guests and gardens.

Karzai issued necessary directives to the officials concerned for removing shortcomings, a separate statement from the Presidential Palace said. (Pajhwok)