WASHINGTON, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- Military and political progress in eastern Afghanistan is being made, but challenges remain, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. David Rodriguez said Wednesday.
"Every day in Eastern Afghanistan, we see progress in security, development and governance," Rodriguez said during a news briefing. "Yes, there are still challenges to overcome before Afghanistan reaches the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, but it's making slow, steady progress toward these goals."
Rodriguez, commander of Combined Joint Task Force-82, said the Afghan army shows "increased capacity" to lead field operations, participating at all levels to provide security and disrupt enemy forces.
He noted increases in traffic, travel and local businesses. Because local governance is emphasized, the number of district centers has increased, "a clear sign that the central government's linkage to the people is improving."
Commenting on the country's economy, Rodriguez said the legitimate economy is growing faster than the "narco-economy," and the grain harvest was sufficient to meet the country's consumption needs.
The Afghan National Police still lack total leadership, he said.
"Corruption, of course, continues to be a problem that plagues the government," but now Afghans are beginning to hold leaders accountable, "a pretty important and significant change."
