Obama says signing of Afghan security pact marks ‘historic day’

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama says the signing of a security agreement between the U.S. and Afghanistan marks a “historic day” in the partnership between the two countries.

The pact allows about 10,000 American troops to stay in Afghanistan after the end of this year. It was signed Tuesday after a lengthy political struggle in Afghanistan that delayed its implementation.

Obama says the agreement reflects the U.S. commitment to supporting the Afghan government and will allow the U.S. military to continue targeting terrorists and training Afghan security forces. The president says he looks forward to working with Afghanistan to cement that country’s “sovereignty, stability, unity, and prosperity.”

Obama also thanked American military personnel who have served in Afghanistan for their “extraordinary service.”

ASSOCIATED PRESS