Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the Situation in Afghanistan

As stated by President Hamid Karzai, these attacks, perpetrated by a tiny group who tries to undermine the government's efforts to restore security and stability in this part of the country, are rejected with indignation by the population of Herat and the people of Afghanistan.

The United Nations remains firm in its commitment to support the implementation of the Bonn process in all fields –humanitarian assistance, reconstruction, democratization and institution-building.

The Secretary-General calls upon all concerned, including Afghan and international security forces, to help create a safe environment for the holding of the upcoming election in the Western region, and in the country at large.