Afghanistan and Pakistan
Afghanistan
The United States has begun the process of reducing its military presence in Afghanistan. As of February 2012, there were approximately 90,000 U.S. forces on the ground. An additional 23,000 will leave by September 2012, thereby completing the removal of the “surge” forces. The Afghan government will take on greater responsibility as American and allied military forces draw down. The full transition is scheduled to be complete at the end of 2014.
Congressman Lynch understands that the process of shifting authority to the Afghan government and people will be challenging. Having traveled to Afghanistan eight times since 2001, he recognizes that the progress that has been made so far is still tenuous. He supports a transition that is orderly and deliberate, that takes into account the conditions on the ground, and is conducted with strong oversight. Congressman Lynch will continue to use his position as a member of the Committee on Oversight and Government Affairs to ensure stringent accountability, both in American efforts, as well as those of the Afghan leadership.
Pakistan
Congressman Lynch understands that as the United States looks to transition responsibility in Afghanistan, the need to address the role Pakistan plays in Afghanistan’s stability is especially critical. While the relationship between Pakistan and the United States has had its challenges, the Congressman understands that Pakistan is a key player in the region and that it will be necessary to work together. Such cooperation, however, must include strong oversight so as to ensure that U.S. assistance is not being misused and that our national interests are not undermined.