This initiative answers demands for a legal government voiced by thousands of Afghans, who are drafting a constitution, preparing for elections, training for a new army and police force, teaching, rebuilding homes, tilling fields, clearing mines and sacrificing their lives in the fight against extremists. Yet in recent angry demonstrations many of these same Afghans poured out their bitterness at how few concrete results these efforts have produced.

A nation built not only for the people, but by the people as well, will stand a far better chance of surviving its first 50 years. The US had assistance as well – but we also had a lot of natural resources to build upon and export.

"... the issue of security casts a long shadow over the whole peace process and indeed, over the whole future of Afghanistan."

Of course, by the same token, promises were made. I think the “US-led” rebuilding effort would just like a little more international support. Frightening people and difficult terrain is no excuse for shirking the responsibility of the International Community.

Or is there some other reason for so many nations wishing to ignore the new Afghanistan…?

Well, the first staggering steps of a new nation are always the most perilous. We'll be there, Tom (too many voters have been stationed there not to) -- and hopefully we will not be alone.

Dan