1)      2010 is largely considered to be a critical year to reverse the downward spiral in Afghanistan. Reconciliation with Taliban and other extremist groups is no doubt an area where headway should be made without delay. What is your opinion on the Parliamentary elections to be held in Afghanistan this year in May, in relation to reconciliation efforts? Would a possible postponement of the elections constitute a backlash against reconciliation work?

2)      In the aftermath of the Presidential elections in Afghanistan, Prime Minister Brown and you have emphasised the need for a renewed compact between the Afghan government and international community. Do you intend this compact to replace the current Afghanistan Compact expiring by 2011? How would the London Conference underpin this objective given the time limitations for meaningful negotiations on what I presume to be a comprehensive arrangement?

3)      In the light of President Obama’s revised strategy and the declared goal to start the withdrawal of US troops by July 2011, does the UK share a similar withdrawal timeline? Do you think that July 2011 is too early given the fluidity of the situation in Afghanistan and Pakistan?