Clinton Makes Surprise Afghan Visit

Secretary arrives amid heightened security, meets with McChrystal
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Nov 18, 2009 7:40 AM CST
Clinton Makes Surprise Afghan Visit
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton waves during her departure at Manila's International Airport on Friday, Nov. 13, 2009.

Hillary Clinton made an unexpected appearance in Afghanistan today to attend the inauguration of President Hamid Karzai and meet with Gen. Stanley McChrystal. It's Clinton's first trip to Afghanistan since becoming secretary of state. Clinton called the visit "a specific opportunity for everyone to take stock of where we are and to determine how we’re going forward together."

Clinton's first stop after arriving in Kabul was a meeting with McChrystal and Ambassador Karl Eikenberry. Later, she'll meet with Karzai and, in her words, make sure "they understand our concern and we understand their concern." Security is being tightened in the capital for the inauguration, which could be a target for militants. (More Hillary Clinton stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X