Afghanistan disappointed with McChrystal’s dismissal, hopeful about Petraeus

KABUL - Afghanistan is unhappy with the US’ decision of dismissing Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal as the top U.S. commander in the country.

Earlier, Afghan President Hamid Karzai had personally lobbied the US President Obama on Tuesday night to keep McChrystal, who was seen by Afghan leaders as a trustworthy general with a deep and nuance understanding of their country.

Much to his disappointment, his request went unheeded as the US dismissed McChrystal from his duty yesterday.

“General McChrystal has been a very important partner, we’re sad to see him go, but we respect this decision by the U.S. commander in chief.” The Washington Post quoted Waheed Omer, a spokesman for Karzai, as saying.

“He was very bright and smart and a very active person, he always called us, sat with us and listened to us. McChrystal’s departure a big loss,” The Washington Post quoted Khalid Pashtoon, the deputy chairman of the Internal Security Committee, as saying.

Afghanistan, however, has welcomed the decision and expressed hope that the replacement of McChrystal would be as efficient and understanding and as McChrystal was towards their country.

“The nomination of Gen. David H. Petraeus, shows the commitment of the United States to Afghanistan,” Omer added.

Petraeus is the former commander of U.S. forces in Iraq and head of the U.S. Central Command. (ANI)