Dr. Ashraf Ghani
Dr. Ashraf Ghani

Foundations of Stability and the Vision for National Prosperity

Foundations of Stability and the Vision for National Prosperity

New Year Address to the Nation (1395)

Keypoints: 

  • Peace and National Reconciliation: Pursuing unity through dialogue.
  • Political Stability and Good Governance: Strengthening accountable institutions.
  • Security and National Defense: Protecting stability through strength.
  • Economic Development and Infrastructure: Driving growth through investment.
  • Anti-Corruption and Justice: Strengthening accountability and public trust.
  • International Cooperation: Building strong and lasting global partnerships.
  • Public Responsibility and National Solidarity: Encouraging shared responsibility.

 

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

First and foremost, I congratulate all Afghans on the arrival of the new Hijri Solar Year. I pray to Almighty Allah that this new year brings blessings and prosperity to all our compatriots.

Reflections on a Year of Transition

Dear sisters and brothers! We began the past year under difficult conditions. Expectations were high, but the reality on the ground was far more complex. We had to undergo a political transition of power and prove that such a transfer could occur not through violence and bloodshed, but through peaceful means and national cooperation. This was no simple task; however, by the grace of the Almighty and the high political consciousness and support of our dear people, the political transition was successfully achieved.

In the past year, we also initiated and successfully completed the military transition. Following the withdrawal of international forces, there were predictions—both within the country and abroad—suggesting that the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces would lack the capacity to protect the country and its system. Yet, by the grace of Allah, the high resolve of our security forces, and the unwavering support of the people, we did not allow the enemies of Afghanistan to tear our homeland apart or destroy our system.

We started the past year fighting for the very survival of the country. At the dawn of this new year, I say with confidence that in this war, victory belongs to our people. We are certain that the enemies of stability and security have no place in our country, and we will surely reach peace and stability.

Global Relations and Economic Stabilization

Transitioning from short-term friendly ties to medium and long-term strategic relationships with the world was another goal achieved last year. Like any other nation, we require firm and stable international relations; fortunately, these relations have been secured to a great extent, and we can now rely on our international standing.

Countering the economic crisis was another vital duty we addressed in 1394. In the coming year, God willing, our people will see the practical fruits of these efforts. People want improvement in their lives and a reduction in economic hardship. The answer to this fundamental demand lay in designing economic and developmental programs and securing the necessary funding for their implementation—areas where, Alhamdullilah, great progress has been made.

Infrastructure and Connectivity

This year, we will generate more electricity than has been produced in Afghanistan in the last hundred years. To achieve the principle of balanced development, we will build water storage dams and implement renewable energy projects across various provinces—Northern, Western, Southern, Central, and Eastern—in 1395. In the current year, construction of the Aqina-Andkhoy and Herat-Iran railways will begin. Furthermore, we are actively seeking funding for the Sheberghan–Mazar-i-Sharif, Kandahar–Chaman, and Kunduz–Spin Boldak rail lines.

From the TAPI project to various agricultural initiatives, fundamental and foundational work will be carried out across the country. These projects directly impact the improvement of people's lives. I can share the good news with our people that the economic crisis—which arose following the withdrawal of foreign troops, the intensification of terrorist activities, and the strain on foreign relations—has significantly subsided.

Political Stability and the Political Class

Dear compatriots, as I look back on the past year as your President, weighing the positives and negatives, the most undeniable fact is that the nation has moved closer to political stability. On the eve of the new year, elected representatives from nearly all provinces are gathering here in Kabul, creating a ground for peace and understanding between the Creator and the created, and among different strata of society. As we hear discussions of national unity, justice, development, peace, brotherhood, and the rule of law, our prayer is that the remaining demands of the people through the National Assembly are addressed through reforms and the realization of their legitimate rights. My message is that reforms must pave the way for our nation to live in an atmosphere of peace and stability, just like other nations of the world.

However, I must also note that within our political class, there are those who prioritize their personal interests over social and national interests. There are individuals in our political circles who believe that if they are ministers, everything is "roses and gardens," but if they are not, everything is "rotten." To these friends, I say: do not punch holes in the boat you yourself are sitting in. We must listen to criticism and accept differences of opinion, but we must not do things that only cause despair and benefit the enemies of Afghanistan’s peace, progress, and happiness.

Governance and the Fight Against Corruption

Afghanistan’s government institutions have many weaknesses. Our administration is not as active as it should be. Corruption exists, and our people suffer from a lack of justice. It is a matter of regret that some in the political class actually support corruption and injustice in practice. While the common people send their sons to the ranks of the National Army and Police, and our security forces sacrifice their lives to protect the homeland, some politicians are not even ready to sacrifice their petty personal interests for the sake of the nation.

My fellow citizens! Good governance requires neither money nor a large budget; it requires a vision and a spirit of cooperation.

The past year was a year of struggle for the survival of Afghanistan; this year must be transformed into the year of a serious struggle against corruption. I must speak clearly: anyone thinking of corruption must know that neither the Afghan nation will tolerate corrupt elements, nor does the international community have the patience to see the tax money of their own people sent into the pockets of a few corrupt individuals in Afghanistan.

Insecurity in our country did not appear suddenly; its internal root lies in injustice. We must dry up this root. To reach this destination, we must hear the voice of the nation and submit to its demands.

A Call for Sacrifice and Peace

While we are more hopeful than ever for transformation and reform, this success depends—after the grace of Allah—on our own resolve and will. Peace, stability, progress, and happiness require sacrifice from every one of us. It is not the duty of the security forces and soldiers alone to sacrifice for the country; we must all possess courage and selflessness. The first step toward sacrifice is to be responsible.

Dear compatriots! While our security forces are stronger and more confident than ever, ready to confront wickedness and rebellion, I reiterate that peace is our goal and the demand of the nation. I call upon all sides and every individual: come, let us bring the caravan of peace to its destination. Let us bring about a time when every home is happy and every day is Nowruz.

Long live Afghanistan!