| In his first televised address to the nation Hamid Karzai said his administration supports a free market. "Social and economic progress in our country is dependent on a free market economy and private sector development," he told Afghan Television. "The government will lessen its interference in economic affairs. This will pave the way for freedom and private sector initiative... The people will be allowed to take part in a free press. I agree with the constitution and I respect it." Freedom of economy and speech, he cautioned however, was limited by "national interest". He did not elaborate. Karzai said the greatest threat to peace and security in the country was the number of guns on the streets. He said he had given instructions to his security chiefs that armed factions should be incorporated into a national army as soon as possible. Karzai has a tough row to hoe. Chances are he won't succeed - but if he does, think what an example to the rest of the Muslim world! If the energy and resources they put into making war were to go into commerce, they'd become a rich nation. |