Readout of President Obama's Videoconference with President Karzai

President Obama spoke with President Karzai this morning by video teleconference.  The two leaders spoke for approximately 30 minutes and discussed a number of topics, including progress by coalition and Afghan National Security forces as security responsibility transitions towards a full Afghan lead in 2014, and our work together to forge a long-term strategic partnership.  The President and President Karzai also discussed their shared commitment to Afghan-led reconciliation and support for a strategy of regional engagement. The two leaders looked ahead to important upcoming international meetings in Istanbul and in Bonn, and agreed to maintain their close consultations going forward.